The networks reported last night that the the Senate judiciary hearings on the confirmation of Judge Sonia Sotomayor are scheduled to start July 13. But what ABC, at least, neglected to note is that Democrats set the date without even the courtesy of running the schedule by their Republican counterparts. (Classy!)
Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell noted that the scheduling move diminishes bipartisan collegiality and threatens the confirmation process itself, by making the hearings less informative: According to McConnell, Democrats'
decision to rush Judge Sotomayor’s confirmation hearing is puzzling. It risks resulting in a less-informed hearing, and it breaks with years of tradition in which bipartisan agreements were reached and honored over the scheduling of hearings for Supreme Court nominees. And it damages the cordiality and good will the Senate relies on to do its business. These kinds of partisan maneuvers have always come with consequences.”
McConnell also contrasted the Democrats' rush to confirm Sotomayor with the Democrats' careful, studied, meticulous review of the records of Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Samuel Alito.
Justice Sotomayor has been prolific: Yet Democrats propose to allow senators only 48 days to review Judge Sotomayor’s 3,625 cases. At that pace, Senators would need to analyze 76 Sotomayor cases per day. Note that Democrats, in contrast, took the leisurely pace of reviewing just six cases per day for the Roberts hearings.
What is it about Sotomayor's record that Democrats are trying to hide? If she's this fabulous nominee of which they claim to be so proud, then why not use her confirmation hearings to showcase her "Latina wisdom" and her "empathy"? It could be a love-fest for identity politics; it's shocking that the Democrats wouldn't want to savor every minute -- rather than cutting it short.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Monday, June 8, 2009
Sotomayor Stumbles
Literally. Judge Sonia Sotomayor broke her ankle this morning at LaGuardia Airport, according to Breitbart. She was heading to Washington for meetings with U.S. Senators regarding her nomination to the Supreme Court.
Sotomayor stopped at the White House before going to get an x-ray. (To find out just when the President plans to tank our health care system?)
Sotomayor will continue her senatorial courtesy calls on crutches, thereby demonstrating that by virture of her life experience, this "wise Latina woman" can "empathize" with at least one white male: Tiny Tim.
We wish the judge a speedy recovery, as ankle injuries are no fun.
Sotomayor stopped at the White House before going to get an x-ray. (To find out just when the President plans to tank our health care system?)
Sotomayor will continue her senatorial courtesy calls on crutches, thereby demonstrating that by virture of her life experience, this "wise Latina woman" can "empathize" with at least one white male: Tiny Tim.
We wish the judge a speedy recovery, as ankle injuries are no fun.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
David Williams Wants MORE Taxes?
Ronnie Ellis is reporting that Sen. Pres. David Williams disagrees with Gov. Steve Beshear on the amount of Kentucky's budget shortfall, and has a different idea about how to raise whatever funds we're short. Instead of agreeing to video gambling terminals at Kentucky racetracks, Williams apparently wants to raise taxes. Again.
Everyone seems to agree on one thing – although there are some competing data – the horse industry is in trouble. But Williams says there’s a better way to boost purses and breeders’ incentives than gambling, offering a plan for a 10 percent tax surcharge on lottery tickets, using some sales taxes on horse products, and taxing out of state betting on Kentucky races to boost purses and incentives. Beshear and spokesmen for Stumbo say allowing the VLTs at tracks is the only workable, available option to help the industry.
Let's unpack that.
Williams tax no. 1 would impose a "10 percent tax surcharge on lottery tickets," according to Ellis. Lottery tickets are sold to the poorest of the poor; it is already the most regressive tax we have. The notion of further taxing these desperate people is very troubling.
Williams tax no. 2 would involve "some sales taxes on horse products." Apparently the idea is to reallocate the revenue from these taxes to increase the race purses. However, if everyone agrees that the horse industry is already in trouble, we should be looking at cutting taxes specific to that industry, not raising or even reallocating them.
Williams tax no. 3, Ellis explains, contemplates "taxing out of state betting on Kentucky races." Although I appreciate the effort to sock it to the out-of-staters, this tax may not even be constitutional.
Williams's proposal does not come in a vacuum. Just last session, Williams agreed to a huge tax hike that hurts Kentucky's other signature industry, the Bourbon distilleries. That provided a long-awaited opening to Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels, who is said to be aggressively wooing Brown-Forman to move to New Albany.
If Kentucky persists in making its tax structure hostile to those industries that make our Commonwealth unique, we will lose those industries. Take away the horse industry and Bourbon industry from Kentucky and we don't look much different than, say West Virginia. These industries define us. We must protect them. Raising taxes is not a solution and would hurt the very industries that need our help.
Everyone seems to agree on one thing – although there are some competing data – the horse industry is in trouble. But Williams says there’s a better way to boost purses and breeders’ incentives than gambling, offering a plan for a 10 percent tax surcharge on lottery tickets, using some sales taxes on horse products, and taxing out of state betting on Kentucky races to boost purses and incentives. Beshear and spokesmen for Stumbo say allowing the VLTs at tracks is the only workable, available option to help the industry.
Let's unpack that.
Williams tax no. 1 would impose a "10 percent tax surcharge on lottery tickets," according to Ellis. Lottery tickets are sold to the poorest of the poor; it is already the most regressive tax we have. The notion of further taxing these desperate people is very troubling.
Williams tax no. 2 would involve "some sales taxes on horse products." Apparently the idea is to reallocate the revenue from these taxes to increase the race purses. However, if everyone agrees that the horse industry is already in trouble, we should be looking at cutting taxes specific to that industry, not raising or even reallocating them.
Williams tax no. 3, Ellis explains, contemplates "taxing out of state betting on Kentucky races." Although I appreciate the effort to sock it to the out-of-staters, this tax may not even be constitutional.
Williams's proposal does not come in a vacuum. Just last session, Williams agreed to a huge tax hike that hurts Kentucky's other signature industry, the Bourbon distilleries. That provided a long-awaited opening to Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels, who is said to be aggressively wooing Brown-Forman to move to New Albany.
If Kentucky persists in making its tax structure hostile to those industries that make our Commonwealth unique, we will lose those industries. Take away the horse industry and Bourbon industry from Kentucky and we don't look much different than, say West Virginia. These industries define us. We must protect them. Raising taxes is not a solution and would hurt the very industries that need our help.
GOP Response: Sesssions on Sotomayor
Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-AL) gave the Republican address this morning, and crystallized the danger of nominating judges based on empathy (or their status as a "wise Latina woman," like Judge Sonia Sotomayor):
“If a judge is allowed to let his or her feelings for one party in the case sway his decision, hasn’t that judge then demonstrated a bias against the other party?
“And, if a judge is allowed to inject his personal views into the interpretation of the law, does he not then have a license to rewrite the laws to fit his own preferences?
“I fear that this ‘empathy standard’ is another step down the path to a cynical, relativistic, results-oriented world:
-- Where words and laws have no fixed meaning;
-- Where unelected judges set policy;
-- And where Constitutional limits on government power are ignored when they are inconvenient to the powerful.
“This standard is deeply troubling because it is so contradictory to our country’s long heritage of a faithful and impartial adherence to the rule of law.
Well said, Sen. Sessions.
“If a judge is allowed to let his or her feelings for one party in the case sway his decision, hasn’t that judge then demonstrated a bias against the other party?
“And, if a judge is allowed to inject his personal views into the interpretation of the law, does he not then have a license to rewrite the laws to fit his own preferences?
“I fear that this ‘empathy standard’ is another step down the path to a cynical, relativistic, results-oriented world:
-- Where words and laws have no fixed meaning;
-- Where unelected judges set policy;
-- And where Constitutional limits on government power are ignored when they are inconvenient to the powerful.
“This standard is deeply troubling because it is so contradictory to our country’s long heritage of a faithful and impartial adherence to the rule of law.
Well said, Sen. Sessions.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Send Trey Your $$$$
In case you did not receive Trey Grayson's email blast yesterday or the direct mail piece that preceded it, click here to (1) tell him to run for U.S. Senate and (2) contribute to his campaign.
Thank God Republicans have a candidate of Trey's talents willing to step up after all of Jim Bunning's stonewalling and crazy antics.
Thank God Republicans have a candidate of Trey's talents willing to step up after all of Jim Bunning's stonewalling and crazy antics.
Wise Woman or Broken Record?
It turns out that Judge Sonia Sotomayor did not strut out her status as a "wise Latina woman" just once; it was not, as the Obama administration tried to spin it, an awkward turn of phrase that Sotomayor would express differently, given a chance.
No, the "wise woman" theme is actually Sotomayor's theme song, -- one she has replayed between 1994 and 2003, according to CQ Politics (via Instapundit):
A draft version of a October 2003 speech Sotomayor delivered at Seton Hall University stated, "I would hope that a wise Latina woman with the richness of her experiences would, more often than not, reach a better conclusion." That is identical to her October 2001 remarks at the University of California, Berkeley that have become the subject of intense criticism by Republican senators and prompted conservative talk show host Rush Limbaugh to label her "racist."
In addition, Sotomayor delivered a series of earlier speeches in which she said "a wise woman" would reach a better decision. She delivered the first of those speeches in Puerto Rico in 1994 and then before the Women's Bar Association of the State of New York in April 1999.
The inescapable conclusion is that Sotomayor did not misspeak: she actually believes that she is wiser by virtue of her ethnicity and ovaries. Don't look for this Judge to show much "empathy" to white males. To keep repeating herself over and over demonstrats that Sotomayor is not so wise as she thinks. And she needs a new writer.
No, the "wise woman" theme is actually Sotomayor's theme song, -- one she has replayed between 1994 and 2003, according to CQ Politics (via Instapundit):
A draft version of a October 2003 speech Sotomayor delivered at Seton Hall University stated, "I would hope that a wise Latina woman with the richness of her experiences would, more often than not, reach a better conclusion." That is identical to her October 2001 remarks at the University of California, Berkeley that have become the subject of intense criticism by Republican senators and prompted conservative talk show host Rush Limbaugh to label her "racist."
In addition, Sotomayor delivered a series of earlier speeches in which she said "a wise woman" would reach a better decision. She delivered the first of those speeches in Puerto Rico in 1994 and then before the Women's Bar Association of the State of New York in April 1999.
The inescapable conclusion is that Sotomayor did not misspeak: she actually believes that she is wiser by virtue of her ethnicity and ovaries. Don't look for this Judge to show much "empathy" to white males. To keep repeating herself over and over demonstrats that Sotomayor is not so wise as she thinks. And she needs a new writer.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
On Judges, Hypocrites and Limp Wrists
We heard lots of righteous indignation last year when Sen. David Williams described now Leut. Gov. Dan Mongiardo as "limp-wristed." That's a code that's no longer a code.
Williams's remark crossed the line from disagreement about political philosophy and public policy -- entirely appropriate for debate -- to casting aspersions based on personal attributes and vague hints of a sexual nature -- not appropriate against anyone.
Yet the Lexington Herald-Leader reprinted a similar allegation that Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell is "limp-wristed" in his opposition to the nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the Supreme Court. In the past, the Herald-Leader correctly denounced the "limp-wristed" label as applied to Mongiardo, but not as to McConnell. (Indeed, the H-L magnified the aspersion by reprinting it.)
On the merits, it is laughable to assert that McConnell's advocacy against judicial activism has been "limp-wristed" as regards Sotomayor or any other nominee. McConnell has stood for judicial restraint and the rule of law more than any other member of the Senate. When other Republicans were preoccupied with running for President, McConnell was a constant presence at Federalist Society meetings (both local and national) where he demanded an up or down vote for all nominees, whether or not they get confirmed in the end. McConnell has been criticized for his relentless focus on the need for judicial restraint and the proper role of unelected Federal judges, an issue that he addressed recently at the University of Louisville's law school graduation.
McConnell will ensure that Sotomayor's record is given the same scrutiny that then Senator Barack Obama demanded for the confirmation hearings of Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Samuel Alito. As a former district court and now appellate judge with a propensity for inflammatory speeches, Sotomayor's record provides much to scrutinize -- including more than 3,000 judicial opinions.
A filibuster would be necessary and appropriate only if Republicans were denied the opportunity to explore the Judge's vast record. Absent a move to railroad her confirmation, however, no filibuster is necessary.
Once the nominee's opinions have been reviewed and the committee testimony taken, McConnell knows that all nominees deserve and up or down vote, including Judge Sotomayor. Perhaps McConnell will vote "nay," as he did when Sotomayor was elevated to the Second Circuit. Or perhaps not: Sotomayor would replace Justice David Souter, simply swapping one liberal with another liberal.
The problem is not that McConnell is not conservative enough, not aggressive enough on activist judges (or anything else for that matter). The problem is that he doesn't have enough troops in the Senate. That's one more reminder for Kentuckians: we cannot afford to let Sen. Jim Bunnings persist in his losing campaign.
Williams's remark crossed the line from disagreement about political philosophy and public policy -- entirely appropriate for debate -- to casting aspersions based on personal attributes and vague hints of a sexual nature -- not appropriate against anyone.
Yet the Lexington Herald-Leader reprinted a similar allegation that Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell is "limp-wristed" in his opposition to the nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the Supreme Court. In the past, the Herald-Leader correctly denounced the "limp-wristed" label as applied to Mongiardo, but not as to McConnell. (Indeed, the H-L magnified the aspersion by reprinting it.)
On the merits, it is laughable to assert that McConnell's advocacy against judicial activism has been "limp-wristed" as regards Sotomayor or any other nominee. McConnell has stood for judicial restraint and the rule of law more than any other member of the Senate. When other Republicans were preoccupied with running for President, McConnell was a constant presence at Federalist Society meetings (both local and national) where he demanded an up or down vote for all nominees, whether or not they get confirmed in the end. McConnell has been criticized for his relentless focus on the need for judicial restraint and the proper role of unelected Federal judges, an issue that he addressed recently at the University of Louisville's law school graduation.
McConnell will ensure that Sotomayor's record is given the same scrutiny that then Senator Barack Obama demanded for the confirmation hearings of Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Samuel Alito. As a former district court and now appellate judge with a propensity for inflammatory speeches, Sotomayor's record provides much to scrutinize -- including more than 3,000 judicial opinions.
A filibuster would be necessary and appropriate only if Republicans were denied the opportunity to explore the Judge's vast record. Absent a move to railroad her confirmation, however, no filibuster is necessary.
Once the nominee's opinions have been reviewed and the committee testimony taken, McConnell knows that all nominees deserve and up or down vote, including Judge Sotomayor. Perhaps McConnell will vote "nay," as he did when Sotomayor was elevated to the Second Circuit. Or perhaps not: Sotomayor would replace Justice David Souter, simply swapping one liberal with another liberal.
The problem is not that McConnell is not conservative enough, not aggressive enough on activist judges (or anything else for that matter). The problem is that he doesn't have enough troops in the Senate. That's one more reminder for Kentuckians: we cannot afford to let Sen. Jim Bunnings persist in his losing campaign.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
McConnell on Sotomayor
Here's Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell's reaction to the nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the U.S. Supreme Court:
“Senate Republicans will treat Judge Sotomayor fairly. But we will thoroughly examine her record to ensure she understands that the role of a jurist in our democracy is to apply the law even-handedly, despite their own feelings or personal or political preferences.
“Our Democratic colleagues have often remarked that the Senate is not a ‘rubber stamp.’ Accordingly, we trust they will ensure there is adequate time to prepare for this nomination, and a full and fair opportunity to question the nominee and debate her qualifications.”
“Senate Republicans will treat Judge Sotomayor fairly. But we will thoroughly examine her record to ensure she understands that the role of a jurist in our democracy is to apply the law even-handedly, despite their own feelings or personal or political preferences.
“Our Democratic colleagues have often remarked that the Senate is not a ‘rubber stamp.’ Accordingly, we trust they will ensure there is adequate time to prepare for this nomination, and a full and fair opportunity to question the nominee and debate her qualifications.”
The Silver Lining on Sonia
David Frum (via Hot Air) has an interesting take on Judge Sonia Sotomayor's nomination to replace Justice David Souter. According to Frum, Sotomayor may be so personally obnoxious that she will push Justice Anthony Kennedy into voting with the conservatives.
If so, the balance of power on the Court actually tips right, given that Souter voted reliably with the liberals; replacing Souter with a Democratic nominee changes nothing unless there are unintended consequences.
If so, the balance of power on the Court actually tips right, given that Souter voted reliably with the liberals; replacing Souter with a Democratic nominee changes nothing unless there are unintended consequences.
Judge Sotomayor To Be Named As Supreme Court Nominee
Several media outlets are reporting that President Obama will announce shortly that Judge Sonia Sotomayor is his nominee to replace Justice Souter. If she is selected, Judge Sotomayer would be an intriguing choice. Currently serving on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, Judge Sotomayor was originally appointed to the bench in 1992 as a District Judge by President George H.W. Bush. President Clinton elevated her to the appellate court in 1997.
Given her connection to the first President Bush, one is tempted to believe that Judge Sotomayer will at least be open-minded to notions of judicial restraint. But then again, Bush appointed Justice Souter also, and we all know how that turned out.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Given her connection to the first President Bush, one is tempted to believe that Judge Sotomayer will at least be open-minded to notions of judicial restraint. But then again, Bush appointed Justice Souter also, and we all know how that turned out.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Joe Biden Admits He's "Out of the Loop"
President Barack Obama promised he would restore the standing of America overseas. Yet look at how Britain's Daily Telegraph reports on his vice president:
It seems that all a reporter has to do to find out about the pickle Barack Obama's is really in over his promise to close the Guantanamo Bay prison is to ask the veep, who was talking to the press at Camp Bondsteel in Kosovo on the final day of his trip to the Balkans.
So will Obama fulfill his vow - announced amid great fanfare in an executive order on day two of his presidency - to close the facility by January 2010? "I think so," Biden responded, according to Newsweek's Holly Bailey.
So perhaps he will. Or perhaps not. We'll see.
Biden continued: "But, look, what the president said is that this is going to be hard. It's like opening Pandora's Box. We don't know what's inside the box." [Emphasis added.]
He also said that "to the best of my knowledge" the number of prisoners "who are a real danger who are not able to returned or tried" has "not been established" by the Obama administration.
So he basically just confirmed his predecessor Dick Cheney's analysis that the decision was taken "with little deliberation, and no plan".
Oh, but it gets wierder. For how those of us who don't want Gitmo terrorists in our jails, Biden suggested a good summer vacation road trip:
For those citizens who might be a tad concerned about hardened Islamist fighters being housed in jails on the American mainland, the veep suggested they should visit the Unabomber or Richard Reid at the Colorado's Supermax.
"There's a bit of a hysteria about, well, my God, these guys are so dangerous. Go to some maximum security cells if you want to know some dangerous people. Matter of fact, it might be an awakening to them."
Got that? Stop being hysterical and go buy a Greyhound ticket to the Supermax.
The buffoon who said these things is one heart beat away from being president, because that's the kind of quality decision we've come to expect from the Obama administration.
It seems that all a reporter has to do to find out about the pickle Barack Obama's is really in over his promise to close the Guantanamo Bay prison is to ask the veep, who was talking to the press at Camp Bondsteel in Kosovo on the final day of his trip to the Balkans.
So will Obama fulfill his vow - announced amid great fanfare in an executive order on day two of his presidency - to close the facility by January 2010? "I think so," Biden responded, according to Newsweek's Holly Bailey.
So perhaps he will. Or perhaps not. We'll see.
Biden continued: "But, look, what the president said is that this is going to be hard. It's like opening Pandora's Box. We don't know what's inside the box." [Emphasis added.]
He also said that "to the best of my knowledge" the number of prisoners "who are a real danger who are not able to returned or tried" has "not been established" by the Obama administration.
So he basically just confirmed his predecessor Dick Cheney's analysis that the decision was taken "with little deliberation, and no plan".
Oh, but it gets wierder. For how those of us who don't want Gitmo terrorists in our jails, Biden suggested a good summer vacation road trip:
For those citizens who might be a tad concerned about hardened Islamist fighters being housed in jails on the American mainland, the veep suggested they should visit the Unabomber or Richard Reid at the Colorado's Supermax.
"There's a bit of a hysteria about, well, my God, these guys are so dangerous. Go to some maximum security cells if you want to know some dangerous people. Matter of fact, it might be an awakening to them."
Got that? Stop being hysterical and go buy a Greyhound ticket to the Supermax.
The buffoon who said these things is one heart beat away from being president, because that's the kind of quality decision we've come to expect from the Obama administration.
GOP Outraises Dems
For a party that's supposed to be on life support, there's a lot of money coming in. The Republican National Committee out-raised the Democratic National Committee $5.76 million to $4.52 last month.
When the Senatorial and Congressional Committees are added in, the totals for the parties are $10.92 million for the Republicans, $10.70 million for the Democrats. The Republican committees have no debt -- none-- whereas the combined debt for the Democratic committees is $17.33 million.
Looks like the Dems run the party the same way they run the country: lots of red ink. How long before the bailout?
When the Senatorial and Congressional Committees are added in, the totals for the parties are $10.92 million for the Republicans, $10.70 million for the Democrats. The Republican committees have no debt -- none-- whereas the combined debt for the Democratic committees is $17.33 million.
Looks like the Dems run the party the same way they run the country: lots of red ink. How long before the bailout?
Thursday, May 21, 2009
McConnell Gets Credit on Gitmo
Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell is getting the credit (and our thanks) for the Obama administration's stunning defeat yesterday in its quest to close Gitmo before it has a plan on where to relocate its terrorists.
Even MSNBC, no friend to Republicans, acknowledged that McConnell has led on this issue. Chuck Todd said on the Morning Joe:
Let's give Mitch McConnell political credit here. The Senate Republican leader, he’s been sort of a one man band on this issue for two months. Even in the face of criticism from members of his own party saying hey, why are you focusing on this, this is a distraction, this looks like the Republicans are out of touch, just obsessed with only one issue and guess what, he's created a pretty good political problem for this White House.
With 16 Senate floor speeches and numerous interviews and op-eds, McConnell has been relentless. McConnell has pounded the Obama administration for announcing that it would close Gitmo when the administration has not found a country or a state willing to take the detainees. As the Washington Post noted,
Republicans, led by Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (Ky.), have used the Gitmo closure as evidence that Obama is not fundamentally serious about the defense of the homeland.
Obama must be particularly stung that so many Democrats abandoned him. Yesterday the Senate voted 90-6 to bar the use of federal funds to “transfer, release or incarcerate” Guantanamo detainees “to or within the United States.” Given how few votes McConnell has these days, that's some margin of victory.
It's more than just a political victory for McConnell and Republicans. No terrorist has ever escaped from Gitmo. Keeping Gitmo open keeps us safer than if its Islamofascists are relocated to prisons around the country to recruit and radicalize the U.S. prison population -- or worse, to escape and kill again.
Even MSNBC, no friend to Republicans, acknowledged that McConnell has led on this issue. Chuck Todd said on the Morning Joe:
Let's give Mitch McConnell political credit here. The Senate Republican leader, he’s been sort of a one man band on this issue for two months. Even in the face of criticism from members of his own party saying hey, why are you focusing on this, this is a distraction, this looks like the Republicans are out of touch, just obsessed with only one issue and guess what, he's created a pretty good political problem for this White House.
With 16 Senate floor speeches and numerous interviews and op-eds, McConnell has been relentless. McConnell has pounded the Obama administration for announcing that it would close Gitmo when the administration has not found a country or a state willing to take the detainees. As the Washington Post noted,
Republicans, led by Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (Ky.), have used the Gitmo closure as evidence that Obama is not fundamentally serious about the defense of the homeland.
Obama must be particularly stung that so many Democrats abandoned him. Yesterday the Senate voted 90-6 to bar the use of federal funds to “transfer, release or incarcerate” Guantanamo detainees “to or within the United States.” Given how few votes McConnell has these days, that's some margin of victory.
It's more than just a political victory for McConnell and Republicans. No terrorist has ever escaped from Gitmo. Keeping Gitmo open keeps us safer than if its Islamofascists are relocated to prisons around the country to recruit and radicalize the U.S. prison population -- or worse, to escape and kill again.
Grayson Inches Closer
Secretary of State Trey Grayson has formed a finance committee to support his exploratory committee regarding a run for the U.S. Senate. Finally, a Republican who wants this seat badly enough to do some actual fundraising.
Grayson's finance committee includes members from across the state, including some Republicans with a strong history of raising lots of cash for GOP candidates. Here's the list.
In a perfect world, the formation of Grayson's finance committee would be with Sen. Jim Bunning's blessing, preferably given at the news conference in which Bunning announces that he will retire upon completing his term. Regardless, it is good news for Republicans across the country, not just in Kentucky, that we now have a serious candidate for this pivotal seat.
Grayson's finance committee includes members from across the state, including some Republicans with a strong history of raising lots of cash for GOP candidates. Here's the list.
In a perfect world, the formation of Grayson's finance committee would be with Sen. Jim Bunning's blessing, preferably given at the news conference in which Bunning announces that he will retire upon completing his term. Regardless, it is good news for Republicans across the country, not just in Kentucky, that we now have a serious candidate for this pivotal seat.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Biden's Loose Lips
Vice President Joe Biden's need to show off how much he knows (because he's so important) transcends even his own desire to survive. Not just political survival, but survival of a terrorist attack or act of war.
Biden revealed the location of the previously undisclosed secure bunker where Vice President Dick Cheney spent time after 9/11: it's at Biden's home, at the Naval Observatory.
Biden's stupidity is incomprehensible. And this is the guy that President Barack Obama picked to be one heartbeat away from the presidency.
Biden revealed the location of the previously undisclosed secure bunker where Vice President Dick Cheney spent time after 9/11: it's at Biden's home, at the Naval Observatory.
Biden's stupidity is incomprehensible. And this is the guy that President Barack Obama picked to be one heartbeat away from the presidency.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Poll Shift: More Americans Pro Life Than Pro Choice
For the first time since pollsters have asked the question, more Americans say they are "pro-life" than "pro-choice." A new Gallup poll revealed that the margin is not all that close: 51-42 percent.
I have maintained that technology eventually would cause those who are pro-choice to rethink their position. As someone who distrusts government generally, I can understand the desire to keep reproduction private -- the government is as ill-equipped to meddle in the bedroom as it is in the marketplace. That reasoning falters the first time one hears the sound of a baby's heart beat just a couple weeks after conception. And the image of a baby sucking its thumb on a sonogram makes it hard to dismiss this as a fetus or a choice.
But this is a polling shift that occurred over the course of one year; something else is at play besides fetal heart rate monitors and sonograms. The change is as sudden as it is profound:
The new results, obtained from Gallup's annual Values and Beliefs survey, represent a significant shift from a year ago, when 50% were pro-choice and 44% pro-life. Prior to now, the highest percentage identifying as pro-life was 46%, in both August 2001 and May 2002.
Is the election of our first pro-choice president in years the cause of the shift? Or his demand that taxpayers subsidize abortions for poor people (even though the U. S. Supreme Court held that there is no constitutional right to such a subsidy)?
Gallup writes
With the first pro-choice president in eight years already making changes to the nation's policies on funding abortion overseas, expressing his support for the Freedom of Choice Act, and moving toward rescinding federal job protections for medical workers who refuse to participate in abortion procedures, Americans -- and, in particular, Republicans -- seem to be taking a step back from the pro-choice position. However, the retreat is evident among political moderates as well as conservatives.
It is possible that, through his abortion policies, Obama has pushed the public's understanding of what it means to be "pro-choice" slightly to the left, politically. While Democrats may support that, as they generally support everything Obama is doing as president, it may be driving others in the opposite direction.
Maybe this newest poll will cause the Obama administration to moderate on the issue. I'd rather lose an issue and save lives. At the very least, it should encourage Republicans to hold fast to our beliefs and reject pressure to move to the center.
I have maintained that technology eventually would cause those who are pro-choice to rethink their position. As someone who distrusts government generally, I can understand the desire to keep reproduction private -- the government is as ill-equipped to meddle in the bedroom as it is in the marketplace. That reasoning falters the first time one hears the sound of a baby's heart beat just a couple weeks after conception. And the image of a baby sucking its thumb on a sonogram makes it hard to dismiss this as a fetus or a choice.
But this is a polling shift that occurred over the course of one year; something else is at play besides fetal heart rate monitors and sonograms. The change is as sudden as it is profound:
The new results, obtained from Gallup's annual Values and Beliefs survey, represent a significant shift from a year ago, when 50% were pro-choice and 44% pro-life. Prior to now, the highest percentage identifying as pro-life was 46%, in both August 2001 and May 2002.
Is the election of our first pro-choice president in years the cause of the shift? Or his demand that taxpayers subsidize abortions for poor people (even though the U. S. Supreme Court held that there is no constitutional right to such a subsidy)?
Gallup writes
With the first pro-choice president in eight years already making changes to the nation's policies on funding abortion overseas, expressing his support for the Freedom of Choice Act, and moving toward rescinding federal job protections for medical workers who refuse to participate in abortion procedures, Americans -- and, in particular, Republicans -- seem to be taking a step back from the pro-choice position. However, the retreat is evident among political moderates as well as conservatives.
It is possible that, through his abortion policies, Obama has pushed the public's understanding of what it means to be "pro-choice" slightly to the left, politically. While Democrats may support that, as they generally support everything Obama is doing as president, it may be driving others in the opposite direction.
Maybe this newest poll will cause the Obama administration to moderate on the issue. I'd rather lose an issue and save lives. At the very least, it should encourage Republicans to hold fast to our beliefs and reject pressure to move to the center.
Metro Council Votes to Waste More $
The Metro Counsel voted at 1:30 this morning to require that contractors on its projects that cost more than $500,000 pay the prevailing wage. This was a Democratic initiative, and the Republicans argued strenuously against it but did not have enough votes.
The Courier-Journal has done a good job covering the issue. The prevailing wage,
is defined by state statutes as the “predominant” wage paid to trades in a locality, in this case Jefferson County. It is calculated by taking the average of wages paid on all public projects, similar private projects and union wages.
The problem with it is that by forcing the city to pay union wages, it distorts the market -- it artificially inflates the cost of public construction by preventing anyone from undercutting the unions (and thereby saving taxpayers money).
Earlier this week, the C-J noted that the Chamber of Commerce and Greater Louisville, Inc. fear that the prevailing wage ordinance could put Louisville at a disadvantage when recruiting new businesses to move here. Why? Because the ordinance will apply even if the city is involved a small percent of a project that is primarily paid for with private dollars.
Billy Parson, president and CEO of the Associated Builders & Contractors of Kentuckiana, Inc., said the big difference between union and non-union wages is the amount paid for benefits.
Parson said union carpenters can expect to earn just over $32 an hour, including about $11 in benefits. Nonunion carpenters earn more like $23 an hour, with about $5 an hour going to benefits, he said.
"This is just government interference in the free market and will add unnecessary costs to projects," Parson said, adding that under prevailing wage, a carpenter with one year of experience could earn the same as a carpenter with 20 years of experience.
Those who support the bill say that it somehow levels the playing field.
Democratic council members Jim King (10th District) and Rick Blackwell (12th) are sponsoring the ordinance, saying it's necessary to ensure that local workers see a proper return on city tax dollars invested in big projects.
"It's important to make sure, as much as we can, that jobs produced by local tax dollars keep our local people working," Blackwell said. "For me, it's about local jobs for local workers."
But the ordinance discriminates against anyone -- including local workers -- who would underbid the going rate that the union charges. So this is not just about "local jobs for local workers" but rather government-subsidized jobs for local union workers.
The Kentucky Opportunity Coalition has been all over the prevailing wage issue as it relates to artificially inflating the cost of school construction. Check out their blog as this issue heats up.
Now that our federal government is the majority shareholder in GM ("Government Motors"), it seems our Metro government has decided to enter the construction business -- unless Mayor Jerry understands that this is not the time to inflate the cost of anything the city does and vetoes this ordinance.
The Courier-Journal has done a good job covering the issue. The prevailing wage,
is defined by state statutes as the “predominant” wage paid to trades in a locality, in this case Jefferson County. It is calculated by taking the average of wages paid on all public projects, similar private projects and union wages.
The problem with it is that by forcing the city to pay union wages, it distorts the market -- it artificially inflates the cost of public construction by preventing anyone from undercutting the unions (and thereby saving taxpayers money).
Earlier this week, the C-J noted that the Chamber of Commerce and Greater Louisville, Inc. fear that the prevailing wage ordinance could put Louisville at a disadvantage when recruiting new businesses to move here. Why? Because the ordinance will apply even if the city is involved a small percent of a project that is primarily paid for with private dollars.
Billy Parson, president and CEO of the Associated Builders & Contractors of Kentuckiana, Inc., said the big difference between union and non-union wages is the amount paid for benefits.
Parson said union carpenters can expect to earn just over $32 an hour, including about $11 in benefits. Nonunion carpenters earn more like $23 an hour, with about $5 an hour going to benefits, he said.
"This is just government interference in the free market and will add unnecessary costs to projects," Parson said, adding that under prevailing wage, a carpenter with one year of experience could earn the same as a carpenter with 20 years of experience.
Those who support the bill say that it somehow levels the playing field.
Democratic council members Jim King (10th District) and Rick Blackwell (12th) are sponsoring the ordinance, saying it's necessary to ensure that local workers see a proper return on city tax dollars invested in big projects.
"It's important to make sure, as much as we can, that jobs produced by local tax dollars keep our local people working," Blackwell said. "For me, it's about local jobs for local workers."
But the ordinance discriminates against anyone -- including local workers -- who would underbid the going rate that the union charges. So this is not just about "local jobs for local workers" but rather government-subsidized jobs for local union workers.
The Kentucky Opportunity Coalition has been all over the prevailing wage issue as it relates to artificially inflating the cost of school construction. Check out their blog as this issue heats up.
Now that our federal government is the majority shareholder in GM ("Government Motors"), it seems our Metro government has decided to enter the construction business -- unless Mayor Jerry understands that this is not the time to inflate the cost of anything the city does and vetoes this ordinance.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Hold the Lawyer Jokes
Narcissism is alive and well in the legal profession. Take the U of L law school graduate who was outraged that Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell gave a commencement speech in which McConnell revealed that (gasp!) he holds conservative views on many issues.
Adam Jarboe, a 2009 graduate of University of Lousiville's Brandeis School of Law, took his liberal angst to the Courier-Journal, which dutifully printed it as a letter to the editor.
Not content to have a national figure -- who happens to be a U of L alum -- give a policy address at his commencement, Jarboe whines that McConnell did not pay adequate obeisance to the fact that the graduate had, well, graduated:
Graduation day was supposed to be my day. The day I worked toward for three painstaking years as I trudged through law school. The day was supposed to be about my accomplishments and those of my classmates. [Emphasis added.]
Or to paraphrase the nascent lawyer, "It's all about me, Me, ME!!!"
It is unclear why Jarboe "trudged through law school." This was the University of Louisville, not the University of Siberia. Perhaps he's a plodder. Or maybe trudging is a new phys ed initative to combat obesity. In any event, I hope he has a job, because most clients want the attorney who whizzed or skated through law school, not the guy who "trudged."
I'm gonna go out on a limb here and guess that Jarboe is no conservative:
It is very sad that our final memory of the law school experience boils down to a U.S. senator taking our day and turning it into a stump speech for the "NoBama" campaign as it dwindles further into irrelevance.
Clearly, Jarboe's problem was not that McConnell discussed issues of public import but rather that Jarboe does not like McConnell's positions . Doubtless he wishes that President Barack Obama was giving the commencement address at U of L instead of Notre Dame.
McConnell told the graduates, “Starting today, your life as a lawyer means a lifetime of tackling issues vital to our country. " Rather than resting on platitudes, McConnell gave specific examples of some of the most pressing legal issues of our time, including the role of a judge in upholding the rule of law:
The constitutional rights of foreign fighters, Guantanamo Bay, the role of a justice on the highest court in the land—these are serious issues. As lawyers, you will have the privilege of shaping them, as you launch your legal career.
And if that prospect makes you excited, thrilled, even a little nervous—congratulations. You’ve chosen the right profession.
McConnell's big failure, according to Jarboe, is that
he didn't bother congratulating us in any significant way or recognizing that our ideas are the key to the future. (Because, it's all about me, Me, ME!!!)
So congratulations, Jarboe. As soon as you pass the bar exam, you can call yourself "esquire," unless you feel that is too pretentious for a guy who "trudged through law school." You are about to learn that it is not about you. It's about the client.
Adam Jarboe, a 2009 graduate of University of Lousiville's Brandeis School of Law, took his liberal angst to the Courier-Journal, which dutifully printed it as a letter to the editor.
Not content to have a national figure -- who happens to be a U of L alum -- give a policy address at his commencement, Jarboe whines that McConnell did not pay adequate obeisance to the fact that the graduate had, well, graduated:
Graduation day was supposed to be my day. The day I worked toward for three painstaking years as I trudged through law school. The day was supposed to be about my accomplishments and those of my classmates. [Emphasis added.]
Or to paraphrase the nascent lawyer, "It's all about me, Me, ME!!!"
It is unclear why Jarboe "trudged through law school." This was the University of Louisville, not the University of Siberia. Perhaps he's a plodder. Or maybe trudging is a new phys ed initative to combat obesity. In any event, I hope he has a job, because most clients want the attorney who whizzed or skated through law school, not the guy who "trudged."
I'm gonna go out on a limb here and guess that Jarboe is no conservative:
It is very sad that our final memory of the law school experience boils down to a U.S. senator taking our day and turning it into a stump speech for the "NoBama" campaign as it dwindles further into irrelevance.
Clearly, Jarboe's problem was not that McConnell discussed issues of public import but rather that Jarboe does not like McConnell's positions . Doubtless he wishes that President Barack Obama was giving the commencement address at U of L instead of Notre Dame.
McConnell told the graduates, “Starting today, your life as a lawyer means a lifetime of tackling issues vital to our country. " Rather than resting on platitudes, McConnell gave specific examples of some of the most pressing legal issues of our time, including the role of a judge in upholding the rule of law:
The constitutional rights of foreign fighters, Guantanamo Bay, the role of a justice on the highest court in the land—these are serious issues. As lawyers, you will have the privilege of shaping them, as you launch your legal career.
And if that prospect makes you excited, thrilled, even a little nervous—congratulations. You’ve chosen the right profession.
McConnell's big failure, according to Jarboe, is that
he didn't bother congratulating us in any significant way or recognizing that our ideas are the key to the future. (Because, it's all about me, Me, ME!!!)
So congratulations, Jarboe. As soon as you pass the bar exam, you can call yourself "esquire," unless you feel that is too pretentious for a guy who "trudged through law school." You are about to learn that it is not about you. It's about the client.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Kathleen Sullivan Would Be a Great Justice
Stanford Law professor Kathleen Sullivan has apparently made the short list to replace U.S. Supreme Court Justice David Souter.
Some conservatives are complaining that she should be disqualified because she failed the California bar exam the first time she took it.
Kathleen Sullivan taught me (and Michelle Obama) criminal law at Harvard Law School. It was her first year on the faculty, as I recall. She was a terrific teacher. All Harvard Law professors are bright but not all of them are human. Sullivan is human. She actually cared about her students and wanted us to succeed as lawyers and as people.
Now, this is not to say that I accept the Obama view that judges must be empathetic. Rather, I refuse to see this woman unfairly characterized as unqualified. That she failed the hardest bar exam in the country just shows that she didn't prepare adequately: she needed a lesson in humility when she was younger (who doesn't?).
Anyone who has ever met Sullivan can see in short order that she is highly intelligent. There can be no serious suggestion (as there was with Harriet Myers) that she lacks the intellectual firepower to survive on the Court.
Unlike many members of the Harvard Law faculty at the time, Sullivan was open to divergent points of view -- that is, she didn't shut down conservatives just because she might not agree with us. In fact, Sullivan's teaching method did not particularly disclose much about her politics (though she was a Larry Tribe protege, so we assumed that she was liberal). I do not think she would legislate from the bench; I expect that she'd apply law to facts as impartially as humanly possible.
Sullivan's sexuality neither qualifies her for the Court nor disqualifies her. It is irrelevant.
I probably won't like many of her votes, if she is nominated and confirmed. But conservatives need to remember: our team lost. The best we can hope for is someone who is smart, ethical, fair and has the humiltiy to recognize that the Supreme Court is not a super-legislature for imposing one's personal agenda. Sullivan is all that and more.
Some conservatives are complaining that she should be disqualified because she failed the California bar exam the first time she took it.
Kathleen Sullivan taught me (and Michelle Obama) criminal law at Harvard Law School. It was her first year on the faculty, as I recall. She was a terrific teacher. All Harvard Law professors are bright but not all of them are human. Sullivan is human. She actually cared about her students and wanted us to succeed as lawyers and as people.
Now, this is not to say that I accept the Obama view that judges must be empathetic. Rather, I refuse to see this woman unfairly characterized as unqualified. That she failed the hardest bar exam in the country just shows that she didn't prepare adequately: she needed a lesson in humility when she was younger (who doesn't?).
Anyone who has ever met Sullivan can see in short order that she is highly intelligent. There can be no serious suggestion (as there was with Harriet Myers) that she lacks the intellectual firepower to survive on the Court.
Unlike many members of the Harvard Law faculty at the time, Sullivan was open to divergent points of view -- that is, she didn't shut down conservatives just because she might not agree with us. In fact, Sullivan's teaching method did not particularly disclose much about her politics (though she was a Larry Tribe protege, so we assumed that she was liberal). I do not think she would legislate from the bench; I expect that she'd apply law to facts as impartially as humanly possible.
Sullivan's sexuality neither qualifies her for the Court nor disqualifies her. It is irrelevant.
I probably won't like many of her votes, if she is nominated and confirmed. But conservatives need to remember: our team lost. The best we can hope for is someone who is smart, ethical, fair and has the humiltiy to recognize that the Supreme Court is not a super-legislature for imposing one's personal agenda. Sullivan is all that and more.
McConnell: Keep These Thugs at Gitmo
Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has a piece in The Hill's Congress Blog that highlights three of the terrorists who would be released from Gitmo -- and perhaps housed on U.S. soil -- if the Obama administration persists in closing Gitmo. McConnell has complained for weeks that the administration announced its intent to close Gitmo even though it has no plan whatsoever on where to put the enemy combatants housed there.
McConnell notes that
[One]reason we haven’t been attacked is because some men who are most likely to do so are locked up in Guantanamo. These inmates aren’t spectators. They’re the enemy. They’re the plotters, the planners, the funders, the ones who pull the trigger.
. . .
McConnell highlights three of the terrorist who -- if Obama has his way -- might be coming to a prison near you:
Thug No. 1
One of the men who’s locked away safely at Guantanamo is Khalid Sheikh Muhammad, the man who actually organized the 9/11 attacks. We captured him while he was planning follow-up attacks to 9/11, including a plot to destroy a West Coast skyscraper. If we hadn’t captured Khalid Sheikh Muhammad, he may very well have succeeded in carrying out the same kind of attack on the West Coast that he carried out on the East Coast.
This is a man who boasts about using his, quote, ‘blessed right hand’ to decapitate the American journalist Daniel Pearl. And he’s unrepentant: earlier this year, Khalid Sheikh Muhammad joined a number of other detainees at Guantanamo in declaring themselves, quote, ‘terrorists to the bone,’ and proclaiming September 11, 2001, as a, quote, ‘blessed’ day.
Thug No. 2
Another inmate who still declares himself a ‘terrorist to the bone’ is Ali Abd al-Azeez Ali, who served as a key lieutenant for KSM on several plots against the United States and the United Kingdom, including the 9/11 attacks. During what he describes as the, quote, ‘Blessed 11 September operation,’ Ali transferred money to U.S.-based operatives and served as a sort of travel agent for some of the hijackers. This man is responsible for the deaths of thousands of Americans.
Thug No. 3
Another terrorist at Guantanamo who is responsible for the death of Americans is Abd Al-Rahim Al Nashiri, who masterminded the attack on the USS Cole, which killed 17 U.S. sailors in 2000. When he was arrested, Nashiri was planning new terrorist attacks, including a plot to crash an airplane into a Western naval vessel and a plan targeting a U.S. housing compound in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
And these are just three of many. None of them has been able to kill another American since they were "detained" at Gitmo.
Why mess with success?
McConnell notes that
[One]reason we haven’t been attacked is because some men who are most likely to do so are locked up in Guantanamo. These inmates aren’t spectators. They’re the enemy. They’re the plotters, the planners, the funders, the ones who pull the trigger.
. . .
McConnell highlights three of the terrorist who -- if Obama has his way -- might be coming to a prison near you:
Thug No. 1
One of the men who’s locked away safely at Guantanamo is Khalid Sheikh Muhammad, the man who actually organized the 9/11 attacks. We captured him while he was planning follow-up attacks to 9/11, including a plot to destroy a West Coast skyscraper. If we hadn’t captured Khalid Sheikh Muhammad, he may very well have succeeded in carrying out the same kind of attack on the West Coast that he carried out on the East Coast.
This is a man who boasts about using his, quote, ‘blessed right hand’ to decapitate the American journalist Daniel Pearl. And he’s unrepentant: earlier this year, Khalid Sheikh Muhammad joined a number of other detainees at Guantanamo in declaring themselves, quote, ‘terrorists to the bone,’ and proclaiming September 11, 2001, as a, quote, ‘blessed’ day.
Thug No. 2
Another inmate who still declares himself a ‘terrorist to the bone’ is Ali Abd al-Azeez Ali, who served as a key lieutenant for KSM on several plots against the United States and the United Kingdom, including the 9/11 attacks. During what he describes as the, quote, ‘Blessed 11 September operation,’ Ali transferred money to U.S.-based operatives and served as a sort of travel agent for some of the hijackers. This man is responsible for the deaths of thousands of Americans.
Thug No. 3
Another terrorist at Guantanamo who is responsible for the death of Americans is Abd Al-Rahim Al Nashiri, who masterminded the attack on the USS Cole, which killed 17 U.S. sailors in 2000. When he was arrested, Nashiri was planning new terrorist attacks, including a plot to crash an airplane into a Western naval vessel and a plan targeting a U.S. housing compound in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
And these are just three of many. None of them has been able to kill another American since they were "detained" at Gitmo.
Why mess with success?
Friday, May 8, 2009
Keep Gitmo Detainees Out of Kentucky
The Obama Administration has not said what it will do with all the detainees after it closes the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay. The administration is not saying because it does not know. Plainly, the administration has no plan for where to put these thugs. Germany doesn't want them, and Saudi Arabia has refused them. (So much for the Obama World Appeasement Tour making America lovable again.)
Even Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid is complaining about the administration's lack of specific on where it will send the terrorists.
A state senator in Louisiana has introduced a resolution stating that Louisiana does not want the detainees.
Kentucky needs to do the same during the upcoming special session. All accounts of the overcrowding at the Fayette County jail suggest that we cannot even accommodate our home bred criminals. We don't need to supplement the population with jihadists.
Such a resolution is perhaps the only proactive thing our state legislature can do that won't require a single tax dollar. So let's make clear that if Obama wants to persist in his foolhardy plan to close Gitmo, we don't want these detainees in our backyard.
Update: France has agreed to take one (1) Gitmo detainee! I feel so much safer.
Even Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid is complaining about the administration's lack of specific on where it will send the terrorists.
A state senator in Louisiana has introduced a resolution stating that Louisiana does not want the detainees.
Kentucky needs to do the same during the upcoming special session. All accounts of the overcrowding at the Fayette County jail suggest that we cannot even accommodate our home bred criminals. We don't need to supplement the population with jihadists.
Such a resolution is perhaps the only proactive thing our state legislature can do that won't require a single tax dollar. So let's make clear that if Obama wants to persist in his foolhardy plan to close Gitmo, we don't want these detainees in our backyard.
Update: France has agreed to take one (1) Gitmo detainee! I feel so much safer.
Joe Gerth Mocks Bunning
Joe Gerth from the Courier-Journal has taken his investigative skills to Sen. Jim Bunning's campaign site, and results would be funny if they weren't so pathetic. Bunning's campaign site looks slick enough at first glance, replete with photos and endorsements.
And there's a nice letter from Bunning that says, "Almost six years ago, Kentuckians elected me to serve them in the U.S. Senate and I have been privileged to represent them. It was a competitive and close race that came down to the final stretch, but we won the open seat by a mere 6,766 votes."
Six years ago? 6,766 votes? He won relection four years ago. By nearly 23,000 votes.
Wait a minute.
And those endoresements are from the 2004 election.
This website hasn't been updated in four years.
Why does his wife allow him to persist in this alleged campaign? Or has Mrs. Bunning tried to talk some sense into her husband and he refuses to listen to her (as he does everyone else)?
Somebody, please make him stop.
And there's a nice letter from Bunning that says, "Almost six years ago, Kentuckians elected me to serve them in the U.S. Senate and I have been privileged to represent them. It was a competitive and close race that came down to the final stretch, but we won the open seat by a mere 6,766 votes."
Six years ago? 6,766 votes? He won relection four years ago. By nearly 23,000 votes.
Wait a minute.
And those endoresements are from the 2004 election.
This website hasn't been updated in four years.
Why does his wife allow him to persist in this alleged campaign? Or has Mrs. Bunning tried to talk some sense into her husband and he refuses to listen to her (as he does everyone else)?
Somebody, please make him stop.
Bill Lamb Blasts Bunning
Fox 41's Bill Lamb minced no words last night regarding Sen. Jim Bunning. In Lamb's Point of View segment, he said that Bunning is "not a bad guy" but is a "bad politician." Bunning -- who recently refused to speak to a Fox 41 reporter, apparently because he's mad at Lamb -- is "clearly no longer a viable candidate."
Lamb dismissed Bunning's attempt to blame Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell for Bunning's central problem -- that he is unelectable. "In blaming just about everyone but himself for his political woes," Bunning "fails to see the real problem."
"While Sen. Bunning might not like what he's hearing, he would do well to listen to his critics instead of dismissing them as disloyal traitors."
Those who have publicly or privately told Bunning not to run are not traitors; they are trying to save him from the embarrassment of ending a distinguished career with a crushing loss. Friends speak the truth to one another, whether it's spinach on the teeth, toilet paper on the shoe or a reelection bid that has taken on the stench of certain defeat.
Lamb dismissed Bunning's attempt to blame Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell for Bunning's central problem -- that he is unelectable. "In blaming just about everyone but himself for his political woes," Bunning "fails to see the real problem."
"While Sen. Bunning might not like what he's hearing, he would do well to listen to his critics instead of dismissing them as disloyal traitors."
Those who have publicly or privately told Bunning not to run are not traitors; they are trying to save him from the embarrassment of ending a distinguished career with a crushing loss. Friends speak the truth to one another, whether it's spinach on the teeth, toilet paper on the shoe or a reelection bid that has taken on the stench of certain defeat.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Bunning in His Own Words
Twice during Sen. Jim Bunning's conference call with reporters, an ambulance blared its siren in the background. It seemed a fitting sound effect for a campaign that does not have enough energy (or money) to get off the ground.
Bunning was quite articulate -- and genuinely conservative -- when discussing policy. That made the rest of the call even sadder: when taking questions about his own race, Bunning sounded unhinged. His logic became hard to follow and his tone became shrill and condescending.
For example, Bunning said that he won't be doing much polling not because his campaign is broke but rather because "there are a lot of free polls coming out so why should I poll?" He cited the Courier-Journal as an example of a "non-partisan poll" that he could rely on. And he did not appear to be joking or engaging in sarcasm. To be sure, whatever media outlet commissions a poll would like us to accept it as non-partisan, but that's a leap of faith no serious candidate can afford to take.
However, Bunning is not relying on the C-J to get him reelected. He's talking to a former adviser from the McCain campaign (and we know how well that turned out). Heaven help the poor man.
Bunning insisted that it was his idea for Secretary of State Trey Grayson to form an exploratory committee for statewide federal office, and that he "would have preferred Trey filed earlier." Yet Bunning maintains that the Greyson exploratory committee could be used down the road: "people don't always run in the year they file."
He conceded that Grayson's exploratory committee could be used for the 2010 Senate race but said that it also could be used for "some larger race in 2011." Somebody correct me if I'm wrong, but there is no federal race in Kentucky in 2011 -- barring a special election.
He denied that the Grayson committee would dry up his own fundraising, in direct contradiction of his complaint that Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell's fundraising had precluded Bunning from raising much money by competing for scarce dollars.
Bunning's logic on McConnell was flawed in other respects. On the one hand, he complained that McConnell "wants to run everybody." On the other hand, Bunning attributed every Republican Senate seat lost to McConnell. He called McConnell "selfish," notwithstanding that it was McConnell who saved Bunning from losing his last election. Bunning's real problem is that he cannot win without McConnell once again rescuing him.
Bunning said he "won't walk into 2010 with less than $1 million," conceding that the race will cost between $7-10 million. His next financial report is due in mid July.
Thank goodness Trey Grayson is not waiting to mid July to see the inevitable -- that Bunning's 30 year career in public service, while honorable and consistently conservative, is coming to an end that's painful to watch.
Bunning was quite articulate -- and genuinely conservative -- when discussing policy. That made the rest of the call even sadder: when taking questions about his own race, Bunning sounded unhinged. His logic became hard to follow and his tone became shrill and condescending.
For example, Bunning said that he won't be doing much polling not because his campaign is broke but rather because "there are a lot of free polls coming out so why should I poll?" He cited the Courier-Journal as an example of a "non-partisan poll" that he could rely on. And he did not appear to be joking or engaging in sarcasm. To be sure, whatever media outlet commissions a poll would like us to accept it as non-partisan, but that's a leap of faith no serious candidate can afford to take.
However, Bunning is not relying on the C-J to get him reelected. He's talking to a former adviser from the McCain campaign (and we know how well that turned out). Heaven help the poor man.
Bunning insisted that it was his idea for Secretary of State Trey Grayson to form an exploratory committee for statewide federal office, and that he "would have preferred Trey filed earlier." Yet Bunning maintains that the Greyson exploratory committee could be used down the road: "people don't always run in the year they file."
He conceded that Grayson's exploratory committee could be used for the 2010 Senate race but said that it also could be used for "some larger race in 2011." Somebody correct me if I'm wrong, but there is no federal race in Kentucky in 2011 -- barring a special election.
He denied that the Grayson committee would dry up his own fundraising, in direct contradiction of his complaint that Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell's fundraising had precluded Bunning from raising much money by competing for scarce dollars.
Bunning's logic on McConnell was flawed in other respects. On the one hand, he complained that McConnell "wants to run everybody." On the other hand, Bunning attributed every Republican Senate seat lost to McConnell. He called McConnell "selfish," notwithstanding that it was McConnell who saved Bunning from losing his last election. Bunning's real problem is that he cannot win without McConnell once again rescuing him.
Bunning said he "won't walk into 2010 with less than $1 million," conceding that the race will cost between $7-10 million. His next financial report is due in mid July.
Thank goodness Trey Grayson is not waiting to mid July to see the inevitable -- that Bunning's 30 year career in public service, while honorable and consistently conservative, is coming to an end that's painful to watch.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
More Liberal Hypocrisy
For those whose hypocrisy meters did not explode over Secretary of the Treasury Tim Geithner announcing that he will crack down on tax cheats (other than himself), check out Sen. John Kerry's Congressional hearings.
It seems that when not wind surfing or injecting Botox, Kerry enjoys getting the print from dying newspapers all over his well-manicured hands. He's worried that the likes of the Boston Globe stand on the verge of bankruptcy because the little people no longer subscribe. He is on the case, according to Yahoo!:
Sen. John Kerry said Wednesday's hearing on the future of journalism comes as many papers falter and new ways of delivering information multiply by the day.
The Boston Globe in Kerry's home state of Massachusetts is the latest major paper facing the threat of closure unless it can cut costs.
Kerry said steps must be taken so the news media can stay diverse and independent.
"Diverse and independent" . . . wonder if Kerry will propose a newspaper bailout, with President Barack Obama as Editor-in-Chief. (Hey, he was president of the Harvard Law Review; he has more experience for E-i-C than for Commander-in-Chief).
If Kerry & Friends go the newspaper bailout route, our own Courier-Journal might find itself in the awkward position of urging Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell to seek an earmark.
It seems that when not wind surfing or injecting Botox, Kerry enjoys getting the print from dying newspapers all over his well-manicured hands. He's worried that the likes of the Boston Globe stand on the verge of bankruptcy because the little people no longer subscribe. He is on the case, according to Yahoo!:
Sen. John Kerry said Wednesday's hearing on the future of journalism comes as many papers falter and new ways of delivering information multiply by the day.
The Boston Globe in Kerry's home state of Massachusetts is the latest major paper facing the threat of closure unless it can cut costs.
Kerry said steps must be taken so the news media can stay diverse and independent.
"Diverse and independent" . . . wonder if Kerry will propose a newspaper bailout, with President Barack Obama as Editor-in-Chief. (Hey, he was president of the Harvard Law Review; he has more experience for E-i-C than for Commander-in-Chief).
If Kerry & Friends go the newspaper bailout route, our own Courier-Journal might find itself in the awkward position of urging Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell to seek an earmark.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Air Force One Borrows Former Governor Fletcher's Pilot
Did President Obama's pilot used to work in the Fletcher administration? That was our first reaction to the news that Air Force One had buzzed the Twin Towers site. Apparently, all the White House wanted was a photo op of the President's plane next to the Statue of Liberty to go on post cards. But no one bothered to tell Mayor Bloomberg or anyone else on the ground in New York City, causing many New Yorkers to flee in terror at the sight of the plane. Not since Governor Fletcher's plane took aim at the nation's capitol en route to President Reagan's funeral had an American politician's aircraft caused such a stir in the Office of Homeland Security.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
It is better to be hated than to be laughed at...
Many world leaders hated and feared George Bush, and that was not necessarily a bad thing. If evil or misguided people hate you, that can be an indication that you are on the right track. It seems that while Barack Obama is not hated by world leaders, he certainly must be a laughing stock.
First he goes on an "Apology Tour" to apologize for all the mistakes of this horrible country, then he genuflects to a Muslim king and glad hands a murderous thug! It seems that many world leaders loved his Apology Tour with his pretty wife and his aw shucks attitude, but when it came to his requests for help (placement of Gitmo prisoners, help in Afganistan, bailout money, etc) they almost laughed him out the door.
I would love to be a fly on the wall for the private conversations of many of these world leaders. I bet they are saying things about Obama that the NYT would never print!
Obama is President of the most powerful nation on earth, but I am not sure he understands what that means. He seems more like a community organizer..oops..I forgot that that is what he was. When you are President of the most powerful nation on the earth, you need to be strong, confident and bold. There are those of us who were against Obama's policies during the election, but we did not think he was a wimp. Boy, were we wrong!
First he goes on an "Apology Tour" to apologize for all the mistakes of this horrible country, then he genuflects to a Muslim king and glad hands a murderous thug! It seems that many world leaders loved his Apology Tour with his pretty wife and his aw shucks attitude, but when it came to his requests for help (placement of Gitmo prisoners, help in Afganistan, bailout money, etc) they almost laughed him out the door.
I would love to be a fly on the wall for the private conversations of many of these world leaders. I bet they are saying things about Obama that the NYT would never print!
Obama is President of the most powerful nation on earth, but I am not sure he understands what that means. He seems more like a community organizer..oops..I forgot that that is what he was. When you are President of the most powerful nation on the earth, you need to be strong, confident and bold. There are those of us who were against Obama's policies during the election, but we did not think he was a wimp. Boy, were we wrong!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Tax And Spend = Bad Ending For This Fellow
King Louis XVI, executed in the French Revolution after bankrupting France, checks out the festivities at Louisville's Tea Party.The Score Is Now Tied
A new Rasmussen poll shows that when asked in the context of a generic congressional ballot which party they support, Americans stating a preference are now equally divided between Republicans and Democrats -- 38% to 38%. So much for the left wing media's obituary for the Republican party after last November's election.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Happy Tax Day
As you file your tax return (or your extension) today, consider that if you're 40 years old, you will pay $81,000 just to service the debt on the Obama budget. If you're 50, you'll pay $132,ooo in interest on the debt in the Obama budget. No wonder taxpayers are taking to the streets.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Fidel Castro Feels Reinvigorated
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Obama Saves Cuba and I Am Not Smart Enough
Last night on the 6:00 pm NBC News, I heard Brian Williams mention that the Obama administration was easing restrictions on Cuba in defiance to the George Bush restrictions on Cuba. My ears immediately picked up.
First I thought it was Kennedy that imposed the restrictions on Cuba, but then I realized that each president must impose restrictions as deemed necessary. I did some research on the web and found out that “Last May, former President George W. Bush announced a new policy that people living in the United States could include cell phones in gift parcels sent to Cubans. At the time, Bush aides said that U.S. residents could pay for the cell service attached to phones they send.
Sending money to senior government officials and Communist Party members remains prohibited under Obama's new policy. Restrictions imposed by the Bush administration had limited Cuban travel by Americans to just two weeks every three years. Visits also were confined to immediate family members.”
You really have to be smarter than me to watch the news with clarity. So if President Obama reduces restriction on Cuba in defiance of the Bush administration, we see that he has opened up the possibility of communications with Cuba by use of cell phones that are not supplied and paid for by the Cuban family members living here in the states. Telecommunications can now broadcast and send satellite signals into Cuba if Cuba allows it. Now I get it!
The second point is made that Cuban Americans can now travel more often then the imposed restrictions of the Bush administration. See, under the Bush administration they were only allowed (restricted) to travel just two weeks every three years and travel was confined to immediate family members. So I guess before President Bush’s restrictions on travel were much more open and unlimited?
I just don’t remember a time before President Bush’s administration where we could travel unlimited to Cuba, but I guess it must have been.
There also were comments made on TV that only America is restricting trade to Cuba while the rest of the world is not. I had to laugh because immediately they showed a scene in Cuba with old cars traveling the roads (which were not heavily traveled) with less than modern and unkempt building in the background to show us the positive affect that the rest of the world has had on Cuba.
I was also watching C Span last night and was honored to view the first bi-lingual Presidential Press Conference. I was confused here as well when I heard Dan Restrepo answer a question, that was asked in English, in Spanish. I recognized the person who asked the question was Hispanic but her command of the English language as well as her diction was perfect. Previously I had no idea she was Hispanic when she asked the question. I actually got a little upset. I was not able to understand the answer listening to my President’s Press Conference. I know I am to blame since I don’t understand Spanish and I should. Additionally the answer was not provided in English by sub captioning below the screen and no one translated the answer into English later. See this is where I was not smart enough to watch the news and keep informed. I found out today that Restrepo was giving the answer in Spanish for the benefit of those watching C-Span in Cuba. Now that makes much more sense to me. I was not aware that C-Span was broadcast to Cuba (because I thought there were restrictions from the Bush Administration) and I was not aware that the Cubans must watch C-Span while not understanding a word of English, but for this one question answered in Spanish it must have been crystal clear.
First I thought it was Kennedy that imposed the restrictions on Cuba, but then I realized that each president must impose restrictions as deemed necessary. I did some research on the web and found out that “Last May, former President George W. Bush announced a new policy that people living in the United States could include cell phones in gift parcels sent to Cubans. At the time, Bush aides said that U.S. residents could pay for the cell service attached to phones they send.
Sending money to senior government officials and Communist Party members remains prohibited under Obama's new policy. Restrictions imposed by the Bush administration had limited Cuban travel by Americans to just two weeks every three years. Visits also were confined to immediate family members.”
You really have to be smarter than me to watch the news with clarity. So if President Obama reduces restriction on Cuba in defiance of the Bush administration, we see that he has opened up the possibility of communications with Cuba by use of cell phones that are not supplied and paid for by the Cuban family members living here in the states. Telecommunications can now broadcast and send satellite signals into Cuba if Cuba allows it. Now I get it!
The second point is made that Cuban Americans can now travel more often then the imposed restrictions of the Bush administration. See, under the Bush administration they were only allowed (restricted) to travel just two weeks every three years and travel was confined to immediate family members. So I guess before President Bush’s restrictions on travel were much more open and unlimited?
I just don’t remember a time before President Bush’s administration where we could travel unlimited to Cuba, but I guess it must have been.
There also were comments made on TV that only America is restricting trade to Cuba while the rest of the world is not. I had to laugh because immediately they showed a scene in Cuba with old cars traveling the roads (which were not heavily traveled) with less than modern and unkempt building in the background to show us the positive affect that the rest of the world has had on Cuba.
I was also watching C Span last night and was honored to view the first bi-lingual Presidential Press Conference. I was confused here as well when I heard Dan Restrepo answer a question, that was asked in English, in Spanish. I recognized the person who asked the question was Hispanic but her command of the English language as well as her diction was perfect. Previously I had no idea she was Hispanic when she asked the question. I actually got a little upset. I was not able to understand the answer listening to my President’s Press Conference. I know I am to blame since I don’t understand Spanish and I should. Additionally the answer was not provided in English by sub captioning below the screen and no one translated the answer into English later. See this is where I was not smart enough to watch the news and keep informed. I found out today that Restrepo was giving the answer in Spanish for the benefit of those watching C-Span in Cuba. Now that makes much more sense to me. I was not aware that C-Span was broadcast to Cuba (because I thought there were restrictions from the Bush Administration) and I was not aware that the Cubans must watch C-Span while not understanding a word of English, but for this one question answered in Spanish it must have been crystal clear.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Kentucky Vote Fraud Case Gets National Attention
Townhall has linked an article about prosecution of political "bosses" in southeastern Kentucky who allegedly bought votes. It begins,
Folks in this hardscrabble town tucked into the Appalachian hills don't seem to have much hope when they talk about the latest bunch of officials accused of masterminding crooked county elections.
Residents say votes could be bought for years, underscored by the March indictment of eight officials accused of rigging elections in Clay County. Federal prosecutors say they were part of a scheme to extort undisclosed amounts of cash allegedly used to bribe voters at the polls.
There are hints of optimism that the feds could clean up a long-standing tradition of corruption in this impoverished nook of southeastern Kentucky, some 95 miles south of Lexington, where people struggling to pay the bills and find good jobs were easy targets for vote-buying. For now, disgust abounds.
It's a fairly lengthy article which nonetheless fails to note the party affiliation of any of the defendants. How to explain that glaring omission?
Folks in this hardscrabble town tucked into the Appalachian hills don't seem to have much hope when they talk about the latest bunch of officials accused of masterminding crooked county elections.
Residents say votes could be bought for years, underscored by the March indictment of eight officials accused of rigging elections in Clay County. Federal prosecutors say they were part of a scheme to extort undisclosed amounts of cash allegedly used to bribe voters at the polls.
There are hints of optimism that the feds could clean up a long-standing tradition of corruption in this impoverished nook of southeastern Kentucky, some 95 miles south of Lexington, where people struggling to pay the bills and find good jobs were easy targets for vote-buying. For now, disgust abounds.
It's a fairly lengthy article which nonetheless fails to note the party affiliation of any of the defendants. How to explain that glaring omission?
Way to Go, Navy Seals!
We are very proud of the U.S. Navy Seals who ended the pirate stand-off yesterday, and the brave captain they rescued. What a glorious answer to prayer for Easter Sunday.
Now it's time to amend the Federal Criminal Code to make piracy punishable by the death penalty. It wouldn't apply to the pirate in custody, of course, but it might deter some of the 1,500 known pirates in Somalia from futher terrorizing U.S. merchant ships.
Likewise, the United States should not enter any treaties that prohibit our merchant ships from arming their crews.
Now it's time to amend the Federal Criminal Code to make piracy punishable by the death penalty. It wouldn't apply to the pirate in custody, of course, but it might deter some of the 1,500 known pirates in Somalia from futher terrorizing U.S. merchant ships.
Likewise, the United States should not enter any treaties that prohibit our merchant ships from arming their crews.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Bunning is No. 2!
Senator Jim Bunning is no longer the most vulnerable incumbent in the U.S. Senate, according to Roll Call. He's been displaced by Sen. Chris Dodd (D-CT), who is up to his eyeballs in corruption charges relating to his sweetheart mortgage, his wife's connections to AIG and moving his family to Iowa when he ran for president, among other problems.
So Bunning, like Avis, is now No. 2. Guess that means he has the "big mo."
So Bunning, like Avis, is now No. 2. Guess that means he has the "big mo."
It's Almost Tea Time
Resa Camoriano at the Jefferson Review reminds us that Louisville's "tea party" will take place April 15 from 11:00-1:00 at 6th and Jefferson Street.
Save the date, and come to protest an Obama administration that spends too much, taxes too much and borrows too much. I don't want to waste my Earl Grey, so I think I'll bring "green" tea.
Save the date, and come to protest an Obama administration that spends too much, taxes too much and borrows too much. I don't want to waste my Earl Grey, so I think I'll bring "green" tea.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Why Does President Obama Fear People Expressing Their Opinions?
There is a YouTube video going around representing Thomas Payne and his concern about our Republic as he envisioned it. The video was requesting that if you agreed with the concept of the video to send a "Tea Bag" to your representatives and the White House.
Not wanting to create a large problem but to express my concern I sent a picture of a tea bag to both the president and my representative.
Well it looks as if the YouTube video and people sending tea bags might have started something. Bob Basso, the creator of the YouTube, reportedly has been summoned to the White House to discuss the subject matter of the short films. You can read the story and view both his videos at this link.
http://www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=92999
I am amazed that the most powerful man in this world is concerned about the likes of this YouTube guy and Rush Limbaugh. I would think the President would be more concerned about things like; the economy, Afghanistan, Russian, North Korea, you know, important stuff, not just people expressing their opinions.
Why is he so concerned?
Not wanting to create a large problem but to express my concern I sent a picture of a tea bag to both the president and my representative.
Well it looks as if the YouTube video and people sending tea bags might have started something. Bob Basso, the creator of the YouTube, reportedly has been summoned to the White House to discuss the subject matter of the short films. You can read the story and view both his videos at this link.
http://www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=92999
I am amazed that the most powerful man in this world is concerned about the likes of this YouTube guy and Rush Limbaugh. I would think the President would be more concerned about things like; the economy, Afghanistan, Russian, North Korea, you know, important stuff, not just people expressing their opinions.
Why is he so concerned?
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Geithner and Butt-Head
Excuse me for using a little bit of humor today but I just find this funny.
Remember the cartoon from the 90's Beavis and Butt-Head? OK, I never really watched it but it seemed to be on the TV all the time. Have you ever wondered what happened to Beavis? I might have the answer.
Overseas Contingency Operations aka: Global War on Terror
Seems the War on Terror is over but there is a new operation taking over: “Overseas Contingency Operations.” Yeah, that’s much clearer. What did Shakespeare say; “A rose by any other name……”
"The end of the Global War on Terror -- or at least the use of that phrase -- has been codified at the Pentagon. Reports that the phrase was being retired have been circulating for some time amongst senior administration officials, and this morning speechwriters and other staff were notified via this e-mail to use 'Overseas Contingency Operation' instead."
http://www.weeklystandard.com/weblogs/TWSFP/2009/03/thats_quite_a_contingency.asp
"The end of the Global War on Terror -- or at least the use of that phrase -- has been codified at the Pentagon. Reports that the phrase was being retired have been circulating for some time amongst senior administration officials, and this morning speechwriters and other staff were notified via this e-mail to use 'Overseas Contingency Operation' instead."
http://www.weeklystandard.com/weblogs/TWSFP/2009/03/thats_quite_a_contingency.asp
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Geithner's Gigantic Gaffe
George Soros no doubt made a lot of money this morning from the latest Geithner gaffe. No wonder Soros, the greatest currency speculator of all time, is such a big Obama supporter.
Here's what happened, according to Bloomberg:
Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner sent the dollar tumbling with comments about China’s ideas for overhauling the global monetary system, only to drive it back up by affirming that it should remain the world’s reserve currency.
Geithner was initially asked at a Council on Foreign Relations event in New York about proposals from People’s Bank of China Governor Zhou Xiaochuan for a new international reserve currency. He said “as I understand his proposal, it’s a proposal designed to increase the use of the IMF’s special drawing rights. And we’re actually quite open to that.”
The dollar slid as much as 1.3 percent against the euro within 10 minutes of news accounts of Geithner’s remarks. The U.S. currency was down 0.6 percent at $1.3553 as of 12:31 p.m. in New York.
Roger Altman, who worked with Geithner as deputy Treasury secretary in the Clinton administration, later asked Geithner whether he wanted to “clarify” his remarks.
“I’d like to ask one final question, in effect on behalf of the market,” said Altman, founder of Evercore Partners Inc. “Let me ask the question this way. Do you see any change over the foreseeable future in the basic role of the dollar as the world’s key reserve currency?”
. . . .
. . . .
Geithner responded by saying that “I think the dollar remains the world’s dominant reserve currency.” In an interview with CNBC broadcast after the event, the Treasury chief said that a “strong dollar” is in “America’s interest.”
Those minutes between Geithner's goofy remark and his "clarification" in response to Altman's softball follow-up question cost literally billions of dollars on the currency exchange. More than enough time for the likes of Soros, et al. to reap enough to finance the Obama's 2012 re-election campaign.
Geithnie, you're doing a heckuva job!
Update: Speaking of George Soros, the MailOnline reports his having pocketed $1.1 billion off the recession in 2008 through his hedge fund management. Soros boasted: "'I'm having a very good crisis." We can't wait to see this year's numbers.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Louisville Tea Party Wednesday April 15th 11:00am to 1:00pm
Just reading about the Lexington, KY Tea Party I thought it appropriate to mention that Louisville KY will also have their "Tea Party".
Louisville, Ky. – Wednesday, April 15, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Jefferson Square (tentative location), 10th and Jefferson St.
If you are interested just e-mail Wendy Caswell at LouisvilleTeaParty@gmail.com
As of right now all you need to do is show up on tax day ready to be heard. Also she has planned a poster making party on April 9th (Thursday) at the JCRP Headquarters at 5pm. If you would like to help with that please contact Wendy and she can give you more information on that. I hope to see you soon. We will be heard.
(The above information has been "borrowed" by me from Wendy Caswell. I do hope she understands the reason for my plagiarism.)
Now my second point is a shameless promotion for the Voice Tribune.
In Louisville there is an alternative for news called the Voice Tribune. I highly recommend this publication in as it gives a different perspective than we are use to seeing in the Courier-Journal. The Voice Tribune offers columns by Michelle Malkin and Dennis Prager. They also feature a column by two locals under the name of Adam and McCall. In reading the article by Adam and McCall, they speak of the new Republican Party leader here in Louisville KY. Seems he is doing a great job in the fund raising aspect. But I digress. Here is the nut of the information I took away from the article. Guess how many republicans are in the Louisville area. No really take a guess then scroll down
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The number of registered republicans is around 160,000. Can you imagine this? The town of Mitch McConnell, Anne Northup and the list goes on, all supported by 160,000 Republicans! Something is wrong here. Metro Louisville is about one million in population and we only have 160,000 registered republican. What is that about 20% or under????? Come on this is crazy.
Now, I bet a lot of people that are reading this are members of the other party that Andrew Jackson so proudly used the Jack Ass as its party symbol.
Now, I also bet a lot of you were told that if you wanted your vote to count in Louisville or Kentucky than you better register democratic since we are a democrat area. Well if you are registered as a Dem but are thinking more to the right, how do you find out about the goings on in the RNC? You won’t be asked for a donation or to help on fund raisers or events. You’re just not on the mailing list or in their sights.
I too use to be a Democrat but a few years of being a “businessman” convinced me that the Dems were not really helping me. Against my parent’s judgment I converted to the Republican Party. I have been happy ever since. Proud is a better word.
So my second offer is this. If you feel the same way I do and you want to convert then I have a link for you.
http://www.jeffersoncountyclerk.org/voter-info/registrationcard.pdf
How can a republican ever be a contender in this state if we all hide behind the Democrat Party? There is strength in numbers.
I have had enough, how about you.
Louisville, Ky. – Wednesday, April 15, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Jefferson Square (tentative location), 10th and Jefferson St.
If you are interested just e-mail Wendy Caswell at LouisvilleTeaParty@gmail.com
As of right now all you need to do is show up on tax day ready to be heard. Also she has planned a poster making party on April 9th (Thursday) at the JCRP Headquarters at 5pm. If you would like to help with that please contact Wendy and she can give you more information on that. I hope to see you soon. We will be heard.
(The above information has been "borrowed" by me from Wendy Caswell. I do hope she understands the reason for my plagiarism.)
Now my second point is a shameless promotion for the Voice Tribune.
In Louisville there is an alternative for news called the Voice Tribune. I highly recommend this publication in as it gives a different perspective than we are use to seeing in the Courier-Journal. The Voice Tribune offers columns by Michelle Malkin and Dennis Prager. They also feature a column by two locals under the name of Adam and McCall. In reading the article by Adam and McCall, they speak of the new Republican Party leader here in Louisville KY. Seems he is doing a great job in the fund raising aspect. But I digress. Here is the nut of the information I took away from the article. Guess how many republicans are in the Louisville area. No really take a guess then scroll down
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
The number of registered republicans is around 160,000. Can you imagine this? The town of Mitch McConnell, Anne Northup and the list goes on, all supported by 160,000 Republicans! Something is wrong here. Metro Louisville is about one million in population and we only have 160,000 registered republican. What is that about 20% or under????? Come on this is crazy.
Now, I bet a lot of people that are reading this are members of the other party that Andrew Jackson so proudly used the Jack Ass as its party symbol.
Now, I also bet a lot of you were told that if you wanted your vote to count in Louisville or Kentucky than you better register democratic since we are a democrat area. Well if you are registered as a Dem but are thinking more to the right, how do you find out about the goings on in the RNC? You won’t be asked for a donation or to help on fund raisers or events. You’re just not on the mailing list or in their sights.
I too use to be a Democrat but a few years of being a “businessman” convinced me that the Dems were not really helping me. Against my parent’s judgment I converted to the Republican Party. I have been happy ever since. Proud is a better word.
So my second offer is this. If you feel the same way I do and you want to convert then I have a link for you.
http://www.jeffersoncountyclerk.org/voter-info/registrationcard.pdf
How can a republican ever be a contender in this state if we all hide behind the Democrat Party? There is strength in numbers.
I have had enough, how about you.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Tea, Anyone?
"Tea parties" patterned after the Boston Tea Party are springing up across the nation as voters manifest their disgust with the Obama Administration's profligate spending of our tax dollars.
Last weekend, four thousand people protested federal spending at the Cincinatti tea party. (Check out the Instapundit's pictures.) This Saturday, Lexington gets its own tea party, hosted by WLAP, the Club For Growth and the Bluegrass Institute. The fun starts at noon at the Fayette County Courthouse.
It's a decentralized movement that has caught on by virtue of the power of its message rather than any organizational force, as David Vickers writes:
The American tea party movement bears more resemblance to a rolling block party than a unified organized movement or cause. And that’s precisely why I love it. These people are nice. They’re smart. They come from all walks of life. And they’re sincere. I’ve met hard-hat wearing construction managers, accountants, school teachers, the unemployed, retirees, even the nicest anarchist couple who are worried about their kids’ futures.
And the numbers of protests and protesters continue to stagger, from the consistent low hundreds to the thousands — in all types of political and meteorological climates.
This broad spread outrage with the Obama Administration's spending contrasts with the fake grassroots support that Team Obama is trying to impose from the top down by reactivating its campaign apparatus. So desperate is Obama to gin up support for his budget that he even has called upon Moveon.org to help.
Millions of campaign supporters are receiving e-mails urging them to call members of Congress. Groups allied with the White House are running ads scorning the president's foes. States that were closely contested in the 2008 election are again getting visits from Obama.
While he's in road-trip mode, Obama should take the time to visit one of the tea parties. He'd realize that Rush Limbaugh is not the leader of the Republican Party; John Galt is. And all those women swooning --it's not over Barry's abs, but rather the size of the deficit.
Last weekend, four thousand people protested federal spending at the Cincinatti tea party. (Check out the Instapundit's pictures.) This Saturday, Lexington gets its own tea party, hosted by WLAP, the Club For Growth and the Bluegrass Institute. The fun starts at noon at the Fayette County Courthouse.
It's a decentralized movement that has caught on by virtue of the power of its message rather than any organizational force, as David Vickers writes:
The American tea party movement bears more resemblance to a rolling block party than a unified organized movement or cause. And that’s precisely why I love it. These people are nice. They’re smart. They come from all walks of life. And they’re sincere. I’ve met hard-hat wearing construction managers, accountants, school teachers, the unemployed, retirees, even the nicest anarchist couple who are worried about their kids’ futures.
And the numbers of protests and protesters continue to stagger, from the consistent low hundreds to the thousands — in all types of political and meteorological climates.
This broad spread outrage with the Obama Administration's spending contrasts with the fake grassroots support that Team Obama is trying to impose from the top down by reactivating its campaign apparatus. So desperate is Obama to gin up support for his budget that he even has called upon Moveon.org to help.
Millions of campaign supporters are receiving e-mails urging them to call members of Congress. Groups allied with the White House are running ads scorning the president's foes. States that were closely contested in the 2008 election are again getting visits from Obama.
While he's in road-trip mode, Obama should take the time to visit one of the tea parties. He'd realize that Rush Limbaugh is not the leader of the Republican Party; John Galt is. And all those women swooning --it's not over Barry's abs, but rather the size of the deficit.
A Not So Happy St. Patrick's Day
This is what the Louisville Metro Government did yesterday to vehicles not wearing enough green.Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
McConnell Writes in NYT on Judges
Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell exposes hypocrisy on the part of the New York Times when it comes to judicial confirmations.
No surprise there. Still, it has to be said, and McConnell has done more to uphold the rule of law than anyone by insisting that judicial nominees receive an up or down vote.
Here's McConnell's letter.
No surprise there. Still, it has to be said, and McConnell has done more to uphold the rule of law than anyone by insisting that judicial nominees receive an up or down vote.
Here's McConnell's letter.
McConnell Op-Ed in WaPo on Gitmo
Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has a pieces in today's Washington Post. In the Post, McConnell criticizes the Obama administration's plan to close Guantanamo Bay's detention facility and send the enemy combatants (a term Obama refuses to use) to mainland American prisons in Colorado and Kansas.
McConnell accurately frames the issue as safety vs. popularity:
"While some have raised the concern that holding enemy combatants at Guantanamo damages our prestige, any plan to transfer or release them must meet a simple test: Will it keep Americans as safe as Guantanamo has? If the answer is no, the administration must explain why fulfilling a campaign promise or pleasing European critics is a more important consideration."
There are no good alternatives to Gitmo that can keep Americans safe, McConnell notes:
First, not a single detainee has ever escaped to maim or kill innocents. Guantanamo Bay is, above all else, secure and safely distant from civilian populations.
That is, Gitmo actually works. It incarcerates the worst of the worst terrorists and prevents them from achieving their life objective: killing our citizens and destroying our country.
McConnell accurately frames the issue as safety vs. popularity:
"While some have raised the concern that holding enemy combatants at Guantanamo damages our prestige, any plan to transfer or release them must meet a simple test: Will it keep Americans as safe as Guantanamo has? If the answer is no, the administration must explain why fulfilling a campaign promise or pleasing European critics is a more important consideration."
There are no good alternatives to Gitmo that can keep Americans safe, McConnell notes:
First, not a single detainee has ever escaped to maim or kill innocents. Guantanamo Bay is, above all else, secure and safely distant from civilian populations.
That is, Gitmo actually works. It incarcerates the worst of the worst terrorists and prevents them from achieving their life objective: killing our citizens and destroying our country.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Getting To Yes
Republicans really do want to work with Democrats. That was the message conveyed by Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell in an interview with Bloomberg yesterday, as reported by AOLNews.com. The notable quote:
"No one wants him to fail," McConnell told Bloomberg, referring to Obama, and taking an indirect swipe at Rush Limbaugh. "But saying 'no' to bad policy is not saying 'no' to everything."
In its report, Bloomberg noted that McConnell outlined areas of potential agreement between the President and the Republicans:
In the interview, McConnell said one issue he and Obama might work together on is a possible move to recast at least one of the three major entitlement programs -- Social Security, Medicare or Medicaid. At a White House health-care forum last week, he told Obama an accord would be easier to reach if a bipartisan task force of lawmakers made recommendations.
They also may find common cause on foreign policy, he said. Senator Richard Lugar of Indiana, the top-ranking Republican on the Foreign Relations Committee agreed, saying the two might be allies if the U.S. and Russia begin to forge a new nuclear arms-reduction agreement.
For Republicans to say yes, however, Obama, Reid, Pelosi and company need to practice true bipartisanship: that is, meeting the Republicans somewhere in the middle, as opposed to requiring Republicans to toe the Democrat line completely.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
"No one wants him to fail," McConnell told Bloomberg, referring to Obama, and taking an indirect swipe at Rush Limbaugh. "But saying 'no' to bad policy is not saying 'no' to everything."
In its report, Bloomberg noted that McConnell outlined areas of potential agreement between the President and the Republicans:
In the interview, McConnell said one issue he and Obama might work together on is a possible move to recast at least one of the three major entitlement programs -- Social Security, Medicare or Medicaid. At a White House health-care forum last week, he told Obama an accord would be easier to reach if a bipartisan task force of lawmakers made recommendations.
They also may find common cause on foreign policy, he said. Senator Richard Lugar of Indiana, the top-ranking Republican on the Foreign Relations Committee agreed, saying the two might be allies if the U.S. and Russia begin to forge a new nuclear arms-reduction agreement.
For Republicans to say yes, however, Obama, Reid, Pelosi and company need to practice true bipartisanship: that is, meeting the Republicans somewhere in the middle, as opposed to requiring Republicans to toe the Democrat line completely.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
McConnell: Budget Spends Too Much, Taxes Too Much and Borrows Too Much
Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has a piece on National Review Online:
“In the midst of an economic crisis, government has an obligation to show some restraint. But looking at the final omnibus bill, Americans are likely to conclude that congressional leaders think government operates in a different realm of reality than the rest of the country. It seems some still believe members of Congress aren’t obliged to make any of the tough decisions that most other people do.”
McConnell notes that Republican amendments to the budget could have saved taxpayers billions of dollars. Yet Democrats defeated every single Republican amendment, including:
“In the midst of an economic crisis, government has an obligation to show some restraint. But looking at the final omnibus bill, Americans are likely to conclude that congressional leaders think government operates in a different realm of reality than the rest of the country. It seems some still believe members of Congress aren’t obliged to make any of the tough decisions that most other people do.”
McConnell notes that Republican amendments to the budget could have saved taxpayers billions of dollars. Yet Democrats defeated every single Republican amendment, including:
- Sen. John McCain's amendment to freeze spending at last year's level;
- an amendment to cut the duplicate spending that allows programs to double-dip in in the stimulus package and budget;
- a proposal to cut money going to a lobbying firm under investigation.
In addition to the waste, the Democrats rejected a Republican amendment to prohibit bringing back the Fairness Doctrine.
Democrats rejected a Republican proposal to allow the D.C. school voucher program to continue, even though it is wildly successful and saves money; this will force some classmates at Sasha and Malia Obama's private school to drop out.
Democrats would not even agree to a requirement, proposed by Republicans, that the Secretary of State certify that any funds spent for reconstruction in Gaza would not go to Hamas.
These are common sense amendments that most Americans support. Democrats voted down each and every one.
So much for the Age of Obamian Post-Partisanship.
Is Obama Another Tricky Dicky?
Camille Paglia hits the nail (i.e., the White House) on the head in her commentary today on, among other things, the Obama administration's sophomoric taunts of Rush Limbaugh:
The orchestrated attack on radio host Rush Limbaugh, which has made the White House look like an oafish bunch of drunken frat boys. I returned from carnival in Brazil (more on that shortly) to find the Limbaugh affair in full flower. Has the administration gone mad? This entire fracas was set off by the president himself, who lowered his office by targeting a private citizen by name. Limbaugh had every right to counterattack, which he did with gusto. Why have so many Democrats abandoned the hallowed principle of free speech? Limbaugh, like our own liberal culture hero Lenny Bruce, is a professional commentator who can be as rude and crude as he wants.
Meanwhile, Rush is laughing all the way to the bank. For Obama to get so defensive about a radio show host suggests an insecurity in the Oval Office not seen since the days of Richard Nixon's enemies list.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
The orchestrated attack on radio host Rush Limbaugh, which has made the White House look like an oafish bunch of drunken frat boys. I returned from carnival in Brazil (more on that shortly) to find the Limbaugh affair in full flower. Has the administration gone mad? This entire fracas was set off by the president himself, who lowered his office by targeting a private citizen by name. Limbaugh had every right to counterattack, which he did with gusto. Why have so many Democrats abandoned the hallowed principle of free speech? Limbaugh, like our own liberal culture hero Lenny Bruce, is a professional commentator who can be as rude and crude as he wants.
Meanwhile, Rush is laughing all the way to the bank. For Obama to get so defensive about a radio show host suggests an insecurity in the Oval Office not seen since the days of Richard Nixon's enemies list.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Bunning Loses It Again -- This Time, Over Poll Results
TheHill.com reports today's outburst from Senator Bunning:
Amid the soap opera-like drama that has become Sen. Jim Bunning's (R-Ky.) political future, the lawmaker has commissioned the first poll of his bid for a third term — and he's not releasing the results."It's none of your godd---ed business," Bunning told reporters on a morning conference call, when asked about the poll's results. "If you paid the 20 grand for the poll, you can get some information out of it."
Needless to say, that is not a comment inspiring much confidence in Bunning's poll numbers.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Amid the soap opera-like drama that has become Sen. Jim Bunning's (R-Ky.) political future, the lawmaker has commissioned the first poll of his bid for a third term — and he's not releasing the results."It's none of your godd---ed business," Bunning told reporters on a morning conference call, when asked about the poll's results. "If you paid the 20 grand for the poll, you can get some information out of it."
Needless to say, that is not a comment inspiring much confidence in Bunning's poll numbers.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Dems Backpedalling on Card Check
President Barack Obama is being outflanked on the right -- by members of his own party -- on the issue of taking away the secret ballot in union elections and replacing it with a "card" that workers can "check" while everyone watches.
Proposed card check legislation, the Employee Free Choice Act, appears to be well short of 60 votes in the Senate now that Democrats Ben Nelson(D-NE); N. Blanche Lincoln (D-AR):Mark Pryor (D-AR); Mary Landrieu (D-LA) have expressed deep reservations about card check.
As Sen. Landrieu noted, card check is the last thing our economy needs right now. "I do have a concern about the impact on the economy."
Looks like that $100 million that labor spent electing Democrats last year is not going to bring the expected return.
Proposed card check legislation, the Employee Free Choice Act, appears to be well short of 60 votes in the Senate now that Democrats Ben Nelson(D-NE); N. Blanche Lincoln (D-AR):Mark Pryor (D-AR); Mary Landrieu (D-LA) have expressed deep reservations about card check.
As Sen. Landrieu noted, card check is the last thing our economy needs right now. "I do have a concern about the impact on the economy."
Looks like that $100 million that labor spent electing Democrats last year is not going to bring the expected return.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Warren Buffett Flatly Opposes Card Check
No equivocation here: Warren Buffett opposes card check, the proposed legislation that would get rid of secret ballots in union elections.
Buffett's opposition is significant because throughout the presidential campaign, Barack Obama touted Buffett's support. Apparently, support of a successful businessman is supposed to lull voters into ignoring those doubts about whether Obama actually believes in capitalism.
Too bad Buffett didn't make his statement last meet, in time for the AFL-CIO's winter meeting, to which Obama sent a video reiterating his support for card check.
H/t Hot Air
Buffett's opposition is significant because throughout the presidential campaign, Barack Obama touted Buffett's support. Apparently, support of a successful businessman is supposed to lull voters into ignoring those doubts about whether Obama actually believes in capitalism.
Too bad Buffett didn't make his statement last meet, in time for the AFL-CIO's winter meeting, to which Obama sent a video reiterating his support for card check.
H/t Hot Air
Sunday, March 8, 2009
In God The Mint Has Shrinking Trust
Note: This is a guest post by Eric Bush (age 11).
If you've seen a new presidential dollar coin, you may have noticed, only if you have good eyes, that "In God We Trust" and "E Pluribus Unum" have been placed in millimeter sized font on the side of the coin instead of in a larger font on the face of the dollar like other coins. For many, including me, this is outrage. This may have been a response to complaints about 1st amendment violations even though making "In God We Trust" visible is not preventing people from practicing their religion (or non-religion), nor does it establish any religion. I wonder what the presidents whose faces are on these coins would think of this matter. But because I can't ask them, I am encouraging you to comment on this post and tell me what you think.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Did Reagan Save Gorbachev's Soul?
The Wall Street Journal has a piece that documents President Ronald Reagan's secret attempts to proselytize former Soviet Leader Mikhail Gorbachev.
At a 1988 summit in the former U.S.S.R., Reagan brought up the human rights issue of freedom of religion. The converstation then became more personal.
He told Gorbachev that what he was about to say would be considered entirely secret. According to the notetakers, Reagan told Gorbachev that "if word got out that this was even being discussed, the President would deny he had said anything about it." To emphasize this point, Reagan said again a few minutes later that "if there was anyone in the room who said he had given such advice [to Gorbachev about religion], he would say that person was lying, that he had never said it."
. . .
The president said he had a letter from the widow of a young World War II soldier. He was lying in a shell hole at midnight, awaiting an order to attack. He had never been a believer, because he had been told God did not exist. But as he looked up at the stars he voiced a prayer hoping that, if he died in battle, God would accept him. That piece of paper was found on the body of a young Russian soldier who was killed in that battle.
Gorbachev tried to switch the subject. Perhaps the United States and the Soviet Union might open the way for greater cooperation in space, he told the president. But the president wasn't to be diverted. According to the transcript, Reagan told Gorbachev that space was in the direction of heaven, but not as close to heaven as some other things that they had been discussing.
As the meeting ended, Reagan became even more direct and personal. He noted that his own son Ron did not believe in God either. "The President concluded that there was one thing he had long yearned to do for his atheist son. He wanted to serve his son the perfect gourmet dinner, to have him enjoy the meal, and then to ask him if he believed there was a cook."
A member of the clergy told me a few years ago that Gorbachev was a Christian, a fact Gorbachev revealed at considerable personal peril. I don't know the date of that profession (and will try to find out).
We don't know if when Reagan took the Great Commission to Russia, he was preaching to the choir, so to speak; Reagan had long suspected that Gorbachev believed in Christ. If so, how much comfort that fellowship must have brought Gorbachev, who for all his vast power could not worship freely.
Even more remarkable, Reagan may have helped bring Gorbachev to Christ. Winning the Cold War, restoring American supremacy after the disastrous Carter administration, saving our economy -- Reagan could take credit for all these feats. But none of these accomplishments compares to the value of one man's soul.
At a 1988 summit in the former U.S.S.R., Reagan brought up the human rights issue of freedom of religion. The converstation then became more personal.
He told Gorbachev that what he was about to say would be considered entirely secret. According to the notetakers, Reagan told Gorbachev that "if word got out that this was even being discussed, the President would deny he had said anything about it." To emphasize this point, Reagan said again a few minutes later that "if there was anyone in the room who said he had given such advice [to Gorbachev about religion], he would say that person was lying, that he had never said it."
. . .
The president said he had a letter from the widow of a young World War II soldier. He was lying in a shell hole at midnight, awaiting an order to attack. He had never been a believer, because he had been told God did not exist. But as he looked up at the stars he voiced a prayer hoping that, if he died in battle, God would accept him. That piece of paper was found on the body of a young Russian soldier who was killed in that battle.
Gorbachev tried to switch the subject. Perhaps the United States and the Soviet Union might open the way for greater cooperation in space, he told the president. But the president wasn't to be diverted. According to the transcript, Reagan told Gorbachev that space was in the direction of heaven, but not as close to heaven as some other things that they had been discussing.
As the meeting ended, Reagan became even more direct and personal. He noted that his own son Ron did not believe in God either. "The President concluded that there was one thing he had long yearned to do for his atheist son. He wanted to serve his son the perfect gourmet dinner, to have him enjoy the meal, and then to ask him if he believed there was a cook."
A member of the clergy told me a few years ago that Gorbachev was a Christian, a fact Gorbachev revealed at considerable personal peril. I don't know the date of that profession (and will try to find out).
We don't know if when Reagan took the Great Commission to Russia, he was preaching to the choir, so to speak; Reagan had long suspected that Gorbachev believed in Christ. If so, how much comfort that fellowship must have brought Gorbachev, who for all his vast power could not worship freely.
Even more remarkable, Reagan may have helped bring Gorbachev to Christ. Winning the Cold War, restoring American supremacy after the disastrous Carter administration, saving our economy -- Reagan could take credit for all these feats. But none of these accomplishments compares to the value of one man's soul.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Obama's New New Deal Rolls Out The Barrel . . . Moving Downhill Fast!
President Obama's tax and spend assault on capitalism continues to have a devastating toll on the stock markets. Today, stocks resumed their slide. Drudge Report calls it "The Hemorrhaging". When we last checked, the Dow was down over 200 points -- easily erasing the gains from yesterday.
In their zeal to "stimulate" the economy, the Democrats ignore the first cardinal rule of tending to a sick patient -- do no harm. The Chinese government leadership seems to get it, having announced there will be no new "stimulus" package in their country.
It's a scary day when the Communist government in Red China is more conservative than Democrats running things in Washington, D.C.
Update: Here is the reality of the "change" brought about by Obama's economic policies, as reported by Yahoo! Finance:
The Dow is now down 24% year-to-date, while the S&P 500 has fallen slightly less since the start of the year. The Nasdaq is down almost 17% for the year.
Meanwhile, the S&P 400 Mid-cap Index and Russell 2000 Small-cap Index are showing year-to-date losses of 23% and 29%, respectively.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
In their zeal to "stimulate" the economy, the Democrats ignore the first cardinal rule of tending to a sick patient -- do no harm. The Chinese government leadership seems to get it, having announced there will be no new "stimulus" package in their country.
It's a scary day when the Communist government in Red China is more conservative than Democrats running things in Washington, D.C.
Update: Here is the reality of the "change" brought about by Obama's economic policies, as reported by Yahoo! Finance:
The Dow is now down 24% year-to-date, while the S&P 500 has fallen slightly less since the start of the year. The Nasdaq is down almost 17% for the year.
Meanwhile, the S&P 400 Mid-cap Index and Russell 2000 Small-cap Index are showing year-to-date losses of 23% and 29%, respectively.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
A Chance for Fiscal Sanity in Frankfort
Given Kentucky's budget crisis -- and how desperately our schools need upgrading -- one piece of legislation is like a breath of fresh air in Frankfort. It's SB 145, an Act Relating to School Construction, filed by Senator Damon Thayer. This legislation would exempt school's from the prevailing wage requirement of KRS 337.010.
That exemption would save schools approximately 21 percent on the labor costs of construction, which means that more schools could be built, repaired or upgraded for the same amount of money, according to the Kentucky Opportunity Coalition.
The Kentucky Department of Education Facilities Management Division found in 2004 that subjecting Kentucky schools to the prevailing wage requirement inflated construction costs by more than $480 million. That money could have done alot of good for our children, had it not been wasted.
Kentucky does not have that kind of money to squander -- particularly given that 90,000 of our children attend sub-par schools. For some districts, the problem is overcrowding. Other schools are in such bad shape that they should be condemned. Few schools offer the state of the art technology (like "smart classrooms") that can best help teachers teach and children learn.
So it is very refreshing to see someone introduce legislation that reflects good stewardship of our tax dollars and a practical way to help our schools. SB 145 deserves quick enactment. Tell your elected officials that Kentucky cannot afford to artificially inflate the cost of school construction by 21 percent.
That exemption would save schools approximately 21 percent on the labor costs of construction, which means that more schools could be built, repaired or upgraded for the same amount of money, according to the Kentucky Opportunity Coalition.
The Kentucky Department of Education Facilities Management Division found in 2004 that subjecting Kentucky schools to the prevailing wage requirement inflated construction costs by more than $480 million. That money could have done alot of good for our children, had it not been wasted.
Kentucky does not have that kind of money to squander -- particularly given that 90,000 of our children attend sub-par schools. For some districts, the problem is overcrowding. Other schools are in such bad shape that they should be condemned. Few schools offer the state of the art technology (like "smart classrooms") that can best help teachers teach and children learn.
So it is very refreshing to see someone introduce legislation that reflects good stewardship of our tax dollars and a practical way to help our schools. SB 145 deserves quick enactment. Tell your elected officials that Kentucky cannot afford to artificially inflate the cost of school construction by 21 percent.
Spend, Baby, Spend!
The Obama administration is spending our money so fast that it cannot even keep track of it all. Consequently, 122 federal programs get to double dip by receiving money from both the Stimulus package and the Omnibus appropriation legislation.
This is exactly what Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell warned of at his press conference last month, when he said. “Back in January, I suggested to the Democratic leadership that we take up the omnibus appropriation bill first. And I did that because I wanted to make sure that we were not engaged in duplicate spending when we finally went to the stimulus.”
For example the National Endowment of the Arts received $50 million in the Stimulus bill and $155 million in the Omnibus. Now that Obama wants to kill charitable giving by taking the deduction away from the people who do all the giving, he will make the arts completely dependant on the government; these millions are the first (and second) installment.
There's also duplicate spending for grants for community organizations like ACORN -- $1 billion in the Stimulus and $3.9 billion in the Omnibus.
Likewise, the National Institute for Standards and Technology gets to double dip -- $220 million in Stimulus and $472 million in the Omnibus. Maybe they'll finally get us switched to the metric system.
Fish and Wildlife are suffering from the recession, as more Americans are forced to eat what they kill. So the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service gets $165 million in Stimulus and $1.14 billion in the Omnibus.
Note the pattern. The Omnibus bill not only duplicates the Stimulus package, it magnifies it. The Omnibus appropriation bill is the Stimulus package on steroids.
This is exactly what Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell warned of at his press conference last month, when he said. “Back in January, I suggested to the Democratic leadership that we take up the omnibus appropriation bill first. And I did that because I wanted to make sure that we were not engaged in duplicate spending when we finally went to the stimulus.”
For example the National Endowment of the Arts received $50 million in the Stimulus bill and $155 million in the Omnibus. Now that Obama wants to kill charitable giving by taking the deduction away from the people who do all the giving, he will make the arts completely dependant on the government; these millions are the first (and second) installment.
There's also duplicate spending for grants for community organizations like ACORN -- $1 billion in the Stimulus and $3.9 billion in the Omnibus.
Likewise, the National Institute for Standards and Technology gets to double dip -- $220 million in Stimulus and $472 million in the Omnibus. Maybe they'll finally get us switched to the metric system.
Fish and Wildlife are suffering from the recession, as more Americans are forced to eat what they kill. So the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service gets $165 million in Stimulus and $1.14 billion in the Omnibus.
Note the pattern. The Omnibus bill not only duplicates the Stimulus package, it magnifies it. The Omnibus appropriation bill is the Stimulus package on steroids.
Seventies Sitcom Redux
If you are too young to understand the pun, you must have voted for Obama. Buy the tee shirt here.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
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